Ebay's Open API - what does it do?

[CameraQuest]

the title says it all. I'm not some software guru.

What is Ebay's "Open API"? (Application Program Interface) and what does it do?

Stephen

[Brian Sweeney]

It looks like it allows software to be written to access Ebay and perform Ebay functions. The "Application Program Interface" gives a set of high-level functions that allow your custom software to access Ebay, perform allowed functions, and to retrieve data. You could write software to scour Ebay for certain items and to place bids on auctions based on some criteria.

http://developer.ebay.com/DevZone/Shopping/docs/Concepts/ShoppingAPI_FormatOverview.html


https://developer.ebay.com/join/Default.aspx

As it is, I just snapped up two CZJ 5cm F1.5 Sonnars for $100 each. Last thing I need to do is automate the process!

[Double Negative]

Exactly, it's just an API to eBay functions so you can write your own eBay-friendly software. Search and bidding tools, etc. Google has an API for their stuff as well, as do many others.

[paulfitz76]

A good example of this is the program Garage Sale on the Macintosh. It allows you to build a sale page, then you fill in fields for things like price, terms, shipping with your item. FTP your images and then you can upload the page in one click and it makes the whole listing.

Kind of nice but on the Mac only. I have not seen any similar app on the PC.