SDKs Explained: Tools, Benefits, and Differences from APIs

What is an SDK?

An SDK, or Software Development Kit, is a collection of tools, libraries, documentation, and code samples that developers use to create applications for specific platforms or frameworks.

It is a set of code for a specific language that developers don't have to write themselves.

Shell Mobility offers SDKs in 6 programming languages Java, .Net, TypeScript, PHP, Python and Ruby.

These SDKs are categorized into four distinct products, each tailored to specific functionalities:

Shell Digital Payments - SDK

This product includes operations that allow users contactless payment for fuel directly at the forecourt, saving valuable time for busy drivers

Shell Digital Payments - SDK

Shell Card Management APIs - SDK

This product includes operations for managing fuel cards, such as ordering, blocking, extracting card information, and setting usage limits

Shell Card Management APIs - SDK

Shell Data & Reporting APIs - SDK

This product includes customer data endpoints and multiple endpoints for retrieving transactions made by fuel cards, invoices & electronic invoice data (EID)

Shell Data & Reporting APIs - SDKShell

Shell EV - SDK

This product provides APIs to retrieve Shell Recharge locations and manage charging sessions, including starting, stopping, and retrieving session status

Shell EV - SDK

What is included in an SDK?

Authorization and Authentication

SDK includes tools for secure authorization and authentication, integrating protocols like OAuth 2.0, Basic and API Key Authentication. This simplifies the process for developers, eliminating the need to write complex code and manage security manually.

Debugging Tools

Effective debugging tools are essential for identifying and fixing issues in the code. A good SDK provides comprehensive debugging capabilities, including error logging, breakpoints, and real-time debugging.

Documentation and Examples

Comprehensive documentation and code examples are crucial for helping developers understand how to use the SDK effectively. This includes step-by-step guides, API references, and sample projects.

Testing Tools

Testing tools help ensure that the application runs smoothly and meets quality standards. These tools can include unit testing frameworks, integration testing tools, and performance testing utilities.

Libraries and Pre-built Code

Libraries and pre-built code snippets save developers time by providing reusable components for common tasks.

What’s the difference between an SDK and API?

An Application Programming Interface (API) is a set of rules and protocols that allows different software applications to communicate with each other.
APIs provide a way for different software components to interact, often through HTTP requests and responses.
APIs are platform-agnostic and focus on enabling communication between different systems.
Using an API allows developers to access specific functionalities or data from another service without needing to understand its internal workings.
APIs are used to integrate different systems, enabling them to work together seamlessly.

A Software Development Kit (SDK) is a collection of tools, libraries, and documentation that helps developers create applications for a specific platform.
SDKs often include APIs, along with other tools like debuggers, emulators, and sample code.
SDKs are platform-specific and provide everything needed to build and integrate applications.
Using an SDK can simplify development by providing pre-built components and reducing the need for custom code.
SDKs are typically used for building applications from scratch or adding new features to existing ones

Why Should You Use Shell SDKs and APIs?

In today's fast-paced digital landscape, providing a seamless and efficient experience for both users and developers is crucial. Shell SDKs and APIs offer a comprehensive solution to achieve this by streamlining operations and enhancing digital capabilities. Here are some key benefits:

Enhanced User Experience (UX)

Consistency: Ensures features and services work seamlessly across different platforms and devices, providing a smooth and predictable experience.
Performance: Utilizes optimized and well-tested components to improve application performance, leading to faster and more responsive apps.
Reliability: Designed to be robust and reliable, reducing the likelihood of errors and crashes, which builds user trust and keeps them engaged.
Innovation: Access to advanced tools and data allows developers to create innovative features that enhance the overall user experience, making the application more engaging and useful.

Enhanced Developer Experience (DX)

Automation: Helps automate processes and reduce manual tasks, saving time and effort for developers.
Integration: Allows seamless integration of Shell services into existing systems, apps, and websites, simplifying the development process.
Flexibility: SDKs and APIs can be combined to create customized solutions tailored to specific business needs, offering developers the flexibility to innovate.
Support and Resources: Offers comprehensive documentation, sample code, and support resources, making it easier for developers to implement and troubleshoot.

Need help?

Check the frequently asked questions or send us an email through api@shell.com and one of our API team will be able to help.

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SDKs Explained: Tools, Benefits, and Differences from APIs

What is an SDK?