- The OCF UCI is a programming interface that can be used to standardise connectivity between different manufacturers’ cloud servers
- It is based on the OCF’s proximity framework that supports communication between IoT devices and applications over a local network
The Open Connectivity Foundation (OCF), a leading Internet of Things (IoT) standards body has introduced the OCF Universal Cloud Interface (UCI). As per OCF, it is the industry’s first solution to unify the IoT ecosystem through cloud-to-cloud connectivity based on OCF’s work with Open Standards.
The OCF UCI is a programming interface that can be used to standardise connectivity between different manufacturers’ cloud servers. It can also be used for connectivity between devices and the cloud. OCF said that the cloud application programming interface (API) will help the IoT industry to streamline partnerships. It will also help to avoid implementing and maintaining various proprietary programming interfaces at once.
Industry-standard cloud API
Developing and maintaining proprietary APIs when companies collaborate requires visibility. It also requires control between devices and services on both companies’ clouds. This can be expensive in both time and money. As the number of IoT devices expands, the proprietary approach does not scale and it slows the growth of the ecosystem.
OCF said, “The OCF UCI is an industry-standard cloud API, solves this issue and can be used for communications with a plethora of collaborating companies.”
John Park, executive director, Open Connectivity Foundation said, “Different configurations of the same OCF UCI can simplify collaboration between device manufacturers who wish to produce IoT devices but do not have the ability to develop and support their own cloud applications. This configuration can also help companies that have cloud applications and wish to expand the number of devices that can connect to them. Specifically, the manufacturers can produce a single device that connects to any cloud application provided both implement the OCF UCI API. This enables a multitude of manufacturers to produce secure, interoperable IoT devices and delivers welcome flexibility to end users.”
Proximity framework
The OCF UCI is based on the OCF’s proximity framework that supports communication between IoT devices and applications over a local network. It uses the same data models and core technology. For OCF proximity communications, an open source implementation is available.
OCF also announced that products from BSC Computer GmbH, COMMAX, Haier, LG Electronics, Resideo, Samsung Electronics and SURE Universal will be showcased in completely inter-operable smart home demonstrations at the OCF IoT Breakthrough press event at the Barrymore Restaurant in Las Vegas on Six January 2020.
These devices will complete OCF 2.1 certification in 2020, ensuring robust and secure connectivity between devices. Many of these and other industry-leading OCF member companies will be commercially launching products based on the OCF specification in 2020.
