The eBay API is an
Application Programming Interface
An application programming interface (API) is a way for two or more computer programs to communicate with each other. It is a type of software interface, offering a service to other pieces of software. A document or standard that describes how t ...
for interacting directly with the eBay database.
The communication occurs over the
Internet
The Internet (or internet) is the global system of interconnected computer networks that uses the Internet protocol suite (TCP/IP) to communicate between networks and devices. It is a '' network of networks'' that consists of private, pub ...
in the
XML
Extensible Markup Language (XML) is a markup language and file format for storing, transmitting, and reconstructing arbitrary data. It defines a set of rules for encoding documents in a format that is both human-readable and machine-readable. T ...
format. Using the API, an application can provide a custom interface, functionality or specialized operations not otherwise afforded by the eBay interface.
Functionalities
With the eBay API, developers can create programs that can
* Display eBay listings
* Get high-bidder information for sold items
* Get the current list of eBay categories
* Leave feedback about other users when finishing a commerce transaction
* Retrieve lists of items a particular user is currently selling
* Retrieve lists of items a particular user has bid
* Submit items for listing on eBay
* View information about items listed on eBay
As the API does not depend upon the
eBay User Interface, this makes it possible to create stable, custom functionality and interfaces that meet business needs.
eBay APIs
* Trading Api
*
* Feedback Api
* Open Api
See also
*
eBay
eBay Inc. ( ) is an American multinational e-commerce company based in San Jose, California, that facilitates consumer-to-consumer and business-to-consumer sales through its website. eBay was founded by Pierre Omidyar in 1995 and became a ...
References
{{Reflist, 2
External links
What is the eBay API?
EBay
Application programming interfaces