Shopify API Guide: What is an API, Available Types of Shopify APIs, and How to Access Shopify API?
Feeling overwhelmed managing your online store? Wish there were a way to automate tasks, integrate third-party applications, and create a unique shopping experience for your customers? Look no further than APIs. This guide is designed to be a one-stop shop for understanding Shopify APIs, even if you’re not a technical expert. We’ll break down the basics of APIs, explore the different types of Shopify APIs available, and guide you through the process of accessing Shopify API to build custom apps in Shopify Plus that can transform the store.
If you want to know the basic differences between Shopify and Shopify Plus, read our blog Shopify vs. Shopify Plus: Essential Features for Merchants to Know. Additionally, if you want to integrate any API for your existing store, we provide a Shopify development service.
What is an API?
API stands for Application Programming Interface. Let’s understand this concept with an analogy. Imagine you’re at a restaurant. You generally tell the waiter your order, not the chef directly. Here waiter acts as a messenger, conveying your request to the kitchen. Once the food is ready, the waiter delivers it to you. APIs function similarly. They act as messengers between different software applications, allowing them to communicate and exchange data in a structured way.
In Shopify, APIs are essential for building apps, automating workflows, and enhancing the functionality of an e-commerce store. For example, an API connects the store with a payment gateway like PayPal or Stripe, shipping providers, inventory management systems, or marketing tools, from placing an order to receiving it.
Types Of Shopify APIs
Basic Types of APIs Based on Audience
- Open APIs (Public APIs): It is freely available for anyone to use. It has documentation and allows developers to integrate it into their applications.
- Internal APIs (Private APIs): These APIs are for internal use within a company or organization. Only authorized employees can access and use the resources.
- Composite APIs: These APIs combine multiple data sources into a single API This simplifies development by allowing developers to access data from various sources through a single entry point.
- Partner APIs: These APIs are accessible only among specific groups of developers or businesses, often requiring authorization.
Shopify offers a variety of APIs that allow users to extend the functionality of the stores. Here is the list of various types of Shopify APIs available, including exclusive APIs available in Shopify Plus.
Admin API
The Admin API allows developers to access and manage Shopify store data and improve the user experience of the store. It allows developers to manage products, orders, customers, inventory, and more. The two versions of admin API are GraphQL Admin API and REST Admin API reference.
Storefront API
Storefront API helps to create a unique store that is entirely different from the standard ones. This API lets developers access product data, collections, and content management functionalities. It utilizes GraphQL for data retrieval.
GraphQL: GraphQL is a query language for APIs that allows users to request the data they need in a single request.
REST: Representational State Transfer is a widely used architectural style for APIs.
This method uses URLs and HTTP (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) to access and manipulate data resources.
Payment App API
The Payment App API helps in the integration of third-party payment gateways with Shopify stores. It allows developers to create payment processing solutions that can be integrated into the Shopify checkout process.
Ajax API
Ajax API allows developers to interact with the storefront using JavaScript and AJAX (Asynchronous JavaScript and XML). It is commonly used to show related product recommendations and product suggestions as customers type and much more.
Partner API
Partner API provides access to data from the Partners Dashboard, including transaction details, app events, and interactions within the Shopify ecosystem.
Also Read
Exclusive Shopify Plus APIs
Gift Card API
The Gift Card API allows Shopify Plus merchants to create, issue, and manage gift cards programmatically. This gift card has a unique code that can be used to pay the amount during checkouts.
Multipass API
The Multipass API is a feature for Shopify store owners who operate a separate website in addition to their Shopify store. It lets users log in to the Shopify store with the same email they used on the original website. If they don’t have a Shopify account, then it creates one for them automatically. This makes the login process easier.
Custom Checkout API
Custom Checkout API allows developers to enhance and customize the checkout experience within Shopify stores. It provides tools and resources specifically designed to integrate custom workflows and functionalities directly into the checkout process.
How to access the API for Custom App development in Shopify Plus
The ability to develop custom apps sets Shopify Plus apart, allowing for highly personalized and efficient store management. Accessing the Shopify API is the first step in this process. Follow these steps to access the Shopify API for creating a custom app.
Step-by-Step Guide to Access Shopify API
Step1: Login to Shopify Plus Admin Panel
- Click on “Apps” in the left-hand sidebar.
- Select “Apps and sales channel settings”.
Step 2: Enable Custom App Development
- Click “Develop app”.
- Allow custom app development by following the prompts.
- Read and accept Shopify’s terms and conditions.
- Path: Develop Apps > Allow custom app development
Step 3: Create a Custom App
- Click “Create an app”.
- Enter an app name.
- Provide the app developer’s email address.
Step 4: Set API Scopes
- Go to the “Configuration” tab.
- Click “Admin API integration configure” or “Storefront API integration configure”.
- Choose the necessary scopes for the app.
Scope: A scope is a set of permissions that determines the level of access an application has to a platform’s resources. It acts like an authorization level, specifying what data an app can view, modify, or manipulate within the platform.
Step 5: Install the App:
- Click “Install app”. This will generate the API credentials.
Step 6: Get API Credentials
- Note the Admin API access token, API key, and API secret key displayed after installation.
- Use these credentials to verify your app’s identity and gain access to Shopify’s APIs.
Note: The Admin API access token is shown only once. Write it down or store it securely for future reference. Treat the token like a password and only share it with trusted developers.
API Key: An API Key is a unique identifier issued to an application to authenticate its identity when making API requests. It acts as a simple security mechanism to control and monitor how the API is used.
API Secret Key: An API Secret Key is a confidential key paired with the API Key to add an extra layer of security. It’s not recommended to be shared publicly.
Importance of using Shopify API
- Enhanced Store Functionality: Shopify APIs allow developers to extend the functionality of a Shopify store.
- Workflow Automation: APIs enable the automation of various workflows within the Shopify ecosystem. This reduces manual intervention and minimizes the risk of human errors.
- Third-Party Service Integration: Shopify APIs allow integration with third-party services. For example, the Storefront API can integrate custom payment gateways, CRM systems, ERPs, and marketing automation platforms.
- Scalability: APIs ensure a Shopify store can scale efficiently with business growth. It helps businesses to efficiently integrate new features and functionalities without rebuilding the entire store.
- Custom Application Development: With the help of APIs, developers can build custom applications for specific business requirements.
Also Read
Key Takeaways on Shopify APIs
By now, you should clearly understand Shopify APIs and their potential to transform your online store. Shopify APIs offer endless possibilities for enhanced functionality, streamlined workflows, and seamless third-party integrations.
If you have the creativity but need an expert to build your vision, ColorWhistle can help! We provide dedicated Shopify development services. Visit our Shopify development service page or call us directly at +1 (919) 234-5140 to discuss your project.
What’s Next?
Now that you’ve had the chance to explore our blog, it’s time to take the next step and see what opportunities await!
Implementing Secure Payment Gateways to Preve...
