An API (Application Programming Interface) defines how different software applications can interact and exchange data. In ecommerce, APIs enable integrations between platforms—connecting a Shopify store to email marketing tools, inventory systems, or analytics platforms.
Shopify's Storefront API, for example, allows developers to access product data, create checkouts, and build custom shopping experiences. This API access enables price monitoring tools to programmatically collect product information for competitive analysis.
API-first approaches in ecommerce enable flexibility and extensibility. Rather than being locked into one platform's features, brands can integrate best-in-class tools for each function and swap components as needs evolve.