What is a unified API?

Unified APIs provide a single interface to manage integrations across multiple third-party APIs, addressing complex tasks like authentication, data syncing, and observability, which are typically required for each provider. There are two main approaches to implementing unified APIs: infrastructure-based, like Nango, which allows custom integration logic and full access to API features, and pre-built data models, like those from Merge and Apideck, which offer standardized schemas but limit access to custom fields and unique endpoints. With the advent of AI coding agents, the infrastructure approach has become more appealing as these agents can quickly generate and manage integration code, reducing setup time and allowing for more tailored data models. Nango's infrastructure platform supports AI agents by providing managed authentication, real-time data access, and custom tool calls, offering flexibility and control over integrations. In contrast, pre-built platforms are quicker to set up but may fall short for complex or AI-driven use cases due to their fixed schemas and limited customization. Pricing models also differ, with traditional platforms charging per connection, while modern ones like Nango use usage-based pricing, allowing for scalable and predictable costs.

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