The operator has edge cloud nodes in different locations. This API responds with the node with the shortest network path from the phone. Connecting the app to it usually gives the lowest latency.
The phone is in the north. The operator responds with the northern node that has the shortest network path.
The phone is in the south. The response includes the southern node.
Check again after the phone moves. The nearest node changes, and the app can connect to the new node.
What “nearest” meansThe shortest network path, which usually also has the lowest latency.
Response detailsThe node's ID, name, and provider let the app connect to the nearest edge server.
Simple Edge Discovery: How it works
- Send device detailsThe service provider sends device identifiers, such as a phone number or IP address.
- Find the nearest nodeThe operator finds the edge cloud node with the shortest network path.
- ConnectThe app connects to the service on this node for lower latency.
Simple Edge Discovery: API spec
POST /retrieve-closest-edge-cloud-zonedevice: phone number, IPv4/IPv6 address, etc.| Response fields | Meaning | Example |
|---|---|---|
| edgeCloudZoneId | Node ID (UUID) | f81d4fae-… |
| edgeCloudZoneName | Node name | UK-SOUTH |
| edgeCloudProvider | Node provider | Example Provider |
Responses for three scenarios (excerpts)
TW-NORTH-1Nearest edge node (example name)f81d4fae-7dec-11d0-a765-00a0c91e6bf6Node IDExample ProviderNode providerTW-SOUTH-1Nearest edge node (example name)TW-SOUTH-1Nearest node after movingSpec source: CAMARA SimpleEdgeDiscovery r2.3 (Simple Edge Discovery v2.0.1)
Simple Edge Discovery: GSMA use cases
Autonomous Airport Operations
Problem to solveManual coordination of airport ground vehicles, assets, and monitoring takes time and can cause delays during peak hours.
Simple Edge Discovery's roleRoutes data to the nearest edge node to reduce latency.
Used together: Location Retrieval, Quality on Demand, Location Verification
GSMA source ↗Remote Journalist
Problem to solveUnstable connections in remote or high-risk locations make it hard for journalists to livestream, upload material, and report that they are safe.
Simple Edge Discovery's roleRoutes data to the nearest edge node to reduce latency and speed up uploads.
Used together: Quality on Demand, Location Verification
GSMA source ↗Fully immersive gaming experience
Problem to solveCloud and multiplayer games need extremely low latency. Network fluctuations cause lag and lower image quality.
Simple Edge Discovery's roleRoutes data to the nearest edge node to minimize latency.
Used together: Quality on Demand, Location Verification
GSMA source ↗First Responders
Problem to solveIn disaster zones or hazardous environments, rescuers face delays and risks when assessing damage and finding trapped people.
Simple Edge Discovery's roleSupports low-latency processing at the network edge, such as AI object detection and thermal imaging.
Used together: Quality on Demand, Location Retrieval, Geofencing Subscriptions
GSMA source ↗Reliable network for social media and gaming
Problem to solveReduces latency and ensures network capacity for smooth social media and gaming experiences.
Simple Edge Discovery's roleReduces latency and interruptions.
Used together: Quality on Demand
GSMA source ↗Intelligent Driving
Problem to solveAnalyzes vehicle and driver data to help drivers make decisions and reduce accident risks.
Simple Edge Discovery's roleDeploys applications at the edge near vehicles for faster responses.
Used together: Quality on Demand
GSMA source ↗Remote vehicle operation (Teleoperation)
Problem to solveA shortage of skilled staff means a small number of experts need to remotely operate vehicles from a central location.
Simple Edge Discovery's rolePlaces control applications at the edge near the site for faster responses.
Used together: Location Retrieval, Location Verification, Quality on Demand
GSMA source ↗Sources: GSMA Open Gateway Use Case Library and API Descriptions (accessed 2026-10-14). Descriptions are summaries.