API integration is a process of importing external functionality into an existing software application. In the context of web application development, this usually refers to the process of importing functionality from one or more third-party web services into a web application. This can be done for a variety of reasons, such as to improve the functionality of the application, to reduce development time and cost, or to access data or functionality that is not otherwise available.

API stands for “Application Programming Interface”. It’s a platform that allows software to communicate with each other. When you use an app that requires an API key, you’re using the API. Facebook, Google, and Twitter are all examples of platforms that use APIs.

API integration has become more important in recent years because of the rise of SaaS (Software as a Service). When you sign up for a web-based service, you’re often given a unique API key. This key allows the service to connect to your account and pull in your data.