The rollout of Open Gateway, the global initiative driven by GSMA to standardize APIs in telecommunications, is advancing at full speed. With more than 80% of global connections already covered and strong leadership in Latin America, this initiative promises to transform sectors such as banking, healthcare, and transportation—providing invisible security layers for users while having a high impact on businesses.
We spoke with Alejandro Adamowicz, ICT International Executive for Latin America at GSMA, about the progress, challenges, and opportunities emerging in the region.
— How is Open Gateway progressing globally and regionally?
More than progressing, I’d say we’re exceeding our initial expectations. Today, there are 56 operator groups and about 50 channel partners globally. This covers nearly 80% of worldwide connections. And in Latin America, we’re even further ahead: over 90%, with almost 95% of connections covered by at least one operator that has launched an API.
— Why is Latin America ahead of other regions?
There are several factors. The region is more concentrated among a few operator groups, with very strong penetration: three large players account for about 75%. Also, of the 20 markets where Open Gateway has already launched, six are in LATAM. That raises the average. It also depends on the interests of each market: remember this is a voluntary initiative—each operator decides when to join.
— Is there real interest from companies in using identity verification APIs or Mobile Identity?
Yes, although the big challenge is explaining it and making it tangible. When you sit down with a bank or a transport company, many times, they don’t even know this exists. That’s where the role of integrators like Plusmo is key—they understand client needs. Today, there are already 62 APIs available, enough to start doing business, but they need to be connected to demand.
— In which sectors do you see the greatest potential for adoption of Mobile Identity solutions—digital tools that validate whether a phone number is active, hasn’t been recently cloned, transferred, or tampered with, and that the device being used is legitimate?
The main verticals are banking and finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and transportation. We’re also starting to see adoption in industries linked to 5G and Industrial IoT, where APIs are fundamental to accessing new network functionalities.
— Do companies need to be of a minimum size to implement these APIs?
Not necessarily. More than size, what matters is the user experience you want to provide. An emerging fintech can use these APIs to differentiate itself just as much as a traditional bank with millions of clients. The solution is invisible—or silent—for the user, and it lets companies add another layer of security, in a context where fraud is on the rise.
— Could these “invisible” mobile identity solutions become a “must” in banking, transport, or healthcare?
They should. With the amount of fraud growing every year, these invisible security layers become critical. The problem is that the industry still moves more slowly than desired. You need sponsors inside companies to push these initiatives beyond immediate profit.
— Does the fact that it’s so “invisible” work against it?
It can. The user might feel there’s no validation. That’s why communication is key. A bank, for example, should explain: “We’ve simplified the experience, but you’re protected.” Clients need to be educated.
— What is the role of integrators like Plusmo in this process?
They are essential players. They know how the operators’ “back office” works, have direct connections with demand, and—above all—business drive. They also have the trust of operators, which newer startups often lack. That gives them a huge advantage.
— How long does it take to integrate an API in a real case?
Very little. The entire cycle can take approximately three to four months, provided there’s focus. The technical side is fast; what can delay things is the commercial or communication side.
— And what about the costs?
It depends on how you look at it. Often, the value lies not in generating new revenue but in reducing fraud or process costs. The mistake is to measure it only by immediate profit. It should be seen as a strategic investment.
— In conclusion, what’s missing for Open Gateway to take off fully?
Education and communication—both to users and to companies. At GSMA, we’re working on that, and integrators also play a key role. Open Gateway is not just a technical development: it’s an opportunity to improve customer experience, open new business, and reposition telcos.
