From the security standpoint, OAuth is an essential starting point, says Fox. She adds that more advanced security frameworks, particularly around zero-trust architectures and granular identity management, will become indispensable.
APIs turn observers into doers
APIs are widely seen as a linchpin for evolving agentic AI, but the current landscape is far from perfect. Enterprises still face challenges like inconsistent data practices, fragmented standards, competing integration protocols, and rising security concerns. As a result, some leaders approach the space with cautious optimism rather than full adoption.
“Because the technology is moving at lightning speed, the focus should be on creating a connected, secure, and scalable environment where AI can thrive responsibly,” says Chaplin. For him, unlocking real value from agentic AI will require stronger governance at the data layer, including clearer policies for categorizing, defining, securing, and monitoring enterprise data.
Still, these roadblocks shouldn’t stall momentum. APIs will be essential to move autonomous agents beyond basic conversation and into meaningful, real-world execution. And, over time, organizations that master AI-to-API orchestration will likely outperform peers.
“APIs are the lifeblood of agentic AI,” says Blundell.” Without API access, agents remain observers rather than doers.”
