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API connectors in Bubble let you link your app to external services without needing advanced coding skills. They act as bridges, allowing your app to retrieve data, trigger actions, and integrate with tools like payment gateways, social media platforms, or analytics services. Here's what you need to know:
Bubble simplifies API integrations, making it easier to add powerful features to your app. Whether you're connecting to Australian business APIs or global services, this guide covers the essentials to get started securely and efficiently.
Getting the API Connector up and running is a straightforward process involving two key steps: installing the plugin and configuring your base settings. This setup only takes a few minutes and ensures your integrations work seamlessly.
To begin, head over to the Plugins section in Bubble. Click Add plugin, search for "API Connector", and hit Install. Once installed, a new tab called API Connector will appear in the left-hand menu of your editor. This is where you'll manage all your external API connections.
If you're working on multiple Bubble apps, remember to install the plugin in each app individually. Once the plugin is installed, you're ready to move on to setting up your API configurations.
The API Connector is versatile - it supports multiple APIs and allows you to make several calls per API. However, each connection needs to be configured properly to work as intended.
Start by naming your API service. Use a clear and descriptive name to avoid confusion later. For instance, if you're integrating with Australia Post's API, calling it "Australia Post API" is much more helpful than a generic name like "Shipping API", especially when managing several connections.
Most APIs require authentication. This usually involves generating a unique API token, which you'll need to keep secure. Popular services in Australia, like ASIC's business lookup API or banking APIs, often have specific authentication processes. Be sure to check the API's documentation for details on how to generate credentials, as well as any compliance requirements or data formatting rules.
Next, configure shared headers and parameters. These apply to every call made to that API. For example, you might need to include a Content-Type header or specify the API version in all requests. Setting these shared parameters once saves you the trouble of adding them to each individual API call.
Once your shared settings are in place, review the API's documentation for any additional requirements. Many Australian APIs also outline compliance standards or specific data formats you'll need to follow, so it's worth taking the time to get familiar with these.
The base configuration screen also allows you to define default timeouts and error handling preferences. These act as fallback settings for any API calls that don't have their own parameters, making your integrations more reliable as they grow in complexity.
Once your base API configuration is set up, the next step is ensuring secure connections through proper authentication. Authentication verifies your Bubble app's identity when interacting with external APIs. Different APIs require different methods, and selecting the right one is essential for both security and functionality. Two of the most common approaches you'll encounter are API key authentication and OAuth 2.0.
API keys act as unique tokens that authenticate your Bubble app with an external service. They’re straightforward to use but need to be handled carefully. Always mark API keys as private and store them securely - never expose them in client-side code. Bubble also allows you to configure separate keys for development and live environments, making it easier to manage testing and production credentials.
Each API has its own requirements for how API keys are passed. Some expect the key in a header like Authorization, while others might use custom headers such as X-API-Key or api-key. Always check the API’s documentation to ensure you use the correct parameter and format.
Security is critical when handling API keys. Follow best practices like never sharing keys through insecure channels, avoiding storage in unsecured locations, and not reusing the same key across multiple applications. Regularly refreshing your API tokens is another good habit to maintain strong security.
Additionally, keep rate limits in mind. Many APIs enforce throttling to prevent overuse, so configure your Bubble workflows to respect these limits.
For more advanced use cases, such as delegated access, you’ll want to explore OAuth 2.0, which is covered below.
OAuth 2.0 is a secure and flexible method for delegated access. It allows users to grant your app permission to access their data without sharing their passwords. This makes it ideal for services like Google, Microsoft, or Australian banking APIs that follow Open Banking standards.
The OAuth 2.0 process involves several steps. First, users are redirected to the service provider’s login page, followed by an authorisation screen where they can approve specific permissions for your app. Once they grant access, your app receives an authorisation code, which can then be exchanged for an access token.
Australia's Consumer Data Right framework, which extends to industries like energy and telecommunications, relies heavily on OAuth 2.0 for secure data sharing. If your app needs access to user data, this method is likely your best option.
Setting up OAuth 2.0 in Bubble requires careful attention to detail. The callback URL - where users are redirected after granting permission - must match the URL registered with the API provider exactly. Additionally, you’ll need to define scopes, which determine the specific data your app can access. Request only the permissions necessary to minimise risks.
For example, Atlassian’s OAuth 2.0 flow securely handles access by exchanging an authorisation code for an access token.
When implementing OAuth 2.0, it’s critical to ensure all communication occurs over HTTPS using at least TLS 1.2. Access tokens should be stored securely and included in the Authorization: Bearer header for subsequent API requests. Avoid placing tokens in URLs or query strings, as this can create security vulnerabilities.
Managing tokens is another key part of OAuth 2.0. Access tokens often expire after a set time, so you’ll need to implement refresh token logic to maintain ongoing access. This ensures your app can continue to interact with the API without requiring the user to log in repeatedly.
Once you've set up secure authentication, the next step is creating and customising API calls to drive your app's functionality. This involves configuring endpoints, adding dynamic parameters, and ensuring the data is formatted correctly for each request type. A well-structured approach can make your API integrations more flexible and reusable.
In Bubble, an API endpoint combines an HTTP method (like GET, POST, PUT, or DELETE) with a specific URL that defines the action you want to perform with an external service. The real power lies in making these API calls dynamic, allowing them to adapt based on user input, database values, or other variables.
To make a parameter dynamic in Bubble's API Connector, simply uncheck the 'Private' box next to that parameter. For URL parameters, wrap the parameter name in square brackets (e.g. [parameterName]). For JSON body values, use angle brackets (e.g. <parameterValue>). When setting up dynamic parameters, you'll need to provide an initial hardcoded value for testing purposes, unless the API provider offers a generic test value. If all required data is part of the URL, embed the values in brackets and disable the Private setting. For other parameters, define them in the parameters section with the Private setting turned off.
Bubble's API workflows operate on the server side and can be triggered externally or directly from your app. Depending on the API's requirements, parameters can be passed either in the URL path or in the request body.
POST and PUT requests are different from GET requests because they typically carry data in the request body. Use POST to create new resources and PUT to replace existing ones.
When configuring these requests in Bubble, focus on the Body section of the API Connector. Bubble supports various data formats, including JSON, form data, and plain text. Choose the format that matches the external API's requirements. JSON is the most common format for modern APIs. When building your JSON payload, ensure the structure matches the API documentation exactly - this includes field names, data types, and any nested structures.
Headers are also a key part of POST and PUT requests. For example, you'll often need to include a "Content-Type" header (e.g. Content-Type: application/json for JSON data). Some APIs may also require additional headers for authentication, versioning, or other custom parameters.
The "Use as" dropdown in the API Connector allows you to define an API call as either a data source (for retrieving information) or an action (for sending data). POST, PUT, PATCH, and DELETE requests, which modify data, are typically set up as actions.
Each HTTP method serves a specific purpose: use GET to fetch data, POST to create new records, PUT to replace an entire resource, PATCH to update part of a record, and DELETE to remove data. After setting up your API calls, always initialise them to ensure they work correctly and to allow Bubble to understand the expected response structure before integrating them into your app's workflows.
Once your API is set up, the next step is connecting the data it returns to your Bubble elements and ensuring that errors are managed effectively to keep everything running smoothly.
When your app receives data from an API, you need to link it to your interface so users can view and interact with it. Bubble's approach to managing API responses makes this process straightforward, provided you know where and how to use the data in your app.
"The API Connector is a Bubble-developed plugin that lets you connect to almost any external API from your Bubble application...each call can be set up to be used as an action in your app or as a data source."
You can configure API calls either as data sources to display information or as actions to trigger workflows. If you set up an API call as a data source, it will show up in the "Get data from an external API" option within dynamic expressions. For action-based calls, you can capture the returned data using custom states, URL parameters, or element values, making it available for use across your app.
To display lists of data, Repeating Groups are your go-to tool. For instance, if your API returns a list of products or customer records, you can set the Repeating Group's data source to the API call. Each cell in the group will then show specific details from the response, like product names or customer emails.
For workflows that need to reuse API data, custom states are incredibly handy. They allow you to store complex data structures temporarily and reference them as needed throughout your app.
When dealing with large datasets from APIs, filtering and searching become essential. Bubble's built-in operators, like :filtered, let you narrow down results without making extra API calls. For example, you can quickly find a specific record by its ID and display it to the user.
Next, let's dive into how to handle errors and troubleshoot effectively to keep your app running seamlessly.
APIs can fail for various reasons - network issues, incorrect authentication, or server errors, to name a few. To keep your app functional and user-friendly, it's crucial to build strong error-handling mechanisms.
Managing HTTP Status Codes is a key part of this. Use conditional workflows to check for specific error codes like 404 (not found) or 500 (server error). For example, a 401 error could trigger a re-authentication process, while a 500 error might display a message like "The service is temporarily unavailable."
Bubble workflows typically allow 30-45 seconds for an API call to complete before timing out, although this depends on your plan and the API. Some APIs, like OpenAI, now permit longer timeouts of up to 150 seconds.
Make sure error messages are clear and helpful. Instead of technical jargon like "HTTP 422 Unprocessable Entity", use messages like "Please check your input and try again." Include actionable advice, such as refreshing the page, verifying the internet connection, or contacting support.
Error Logging and Analysis is another critical step. By recording details like error codes, timestamps, user IDs, and the failing API call, you can identify recurring issues and refine your integration over time.
Bubble offers several testing and debugging tools to help resolve API issues. The built-in debugger pauses workflows so you can inspect data at each step, while the Server Logs section provides detailed information about recent API calls and errors. You can also use the "Initialize Call" button in the API Connector to test your setup before rolling it out live.
When troubleshooting, follow a systematic approach:
For temporary disruptions, consider adding retry logic and fallbacks. This could involve retrying failed API calls after a short delay or switching to an alternative data source if the primary API is unavailable.
When working with Australian APIs, it's essential to consider local data formats and compliance requirements. Below are practical examples using Bubble, showcasing how to manage these integrations effectively. These examples can also be adapted into reusable templates, simplifying future API work.
Australian Taxation Office (ATO) APIs are widely used by businesses to ensure compliance and streamline operations. The ATO API Portal provides secure access to a range of APIs tailored for Australian businesses. To begin, you’ll need to register as a Digital Service Provider (DSP) on the ATO API Portal, create a team and a team application, and subscribe to the APIs you need. Available APIs include SMSF Alias Lookup, Health Check, and Stapled Super Fund.
For example, if you’re automating GST reporting in Bubble, make sure your date fields follow the Australian DD/MM/YYYY format. Currency values should also be displayed with the dollar sign, e.g., $1,234.56. These details ensure your application aligns with local conventions. Set up the API endpoints in Bubble by following the earlier methods discussed.
Weather data integration is another common use case. The Bureau of Meteorology provides real-time forecasts, warnings, and observations via web and FTP. When integrating these into Bubble, use Celsius for temperature, kilometres per hour for wind speed, and millimetres for rainfall. Alternatively, Open-Meteo offers free access to weather APIs for non-commercial use without needing an API key.
Payment gateway integration is essential for e-commerce platforms. Australian businesses require secure payment solutions that support debit cards, credit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, and direct debit. When connecting to these gateways, ensure transactions meet local security standards.
For location-based services, use Australian address formats, including street number and name, suburb, state abbreviations (e.g., NSW, VIC), and a four-digit postcode. Distance calculations should be in kilometres, and coordinates should use decimal degrees with sufficient precision.
Once you’ve tackled specific integrations, creating reusable templates can save time and ensure consistency across projects. Start by developing authentication templates that address common Australian API security requirements.
For example, you can create a reusable OAuth 2.0 template for authenticating with the ATO API. The ATO API Portal operates with a structure of Teams and Team Applications. Teams manage application development, while Team Applications are used to subscribe to APIs and handle credentials. A template for this process can streamline future ATO integrations.
For government data APIs, the API.gov.au Definitions Catalogue REST API is a valuable resource. It allows you to search and explore data definitions used by the Australian Government. Build templates that handle government data responses consistently, ensuring dates use the DD/MM/YYYY format, currency values include the dollar sign, and addresses follow Australian postal standards.
Once your API calls are set up and secured, it's crucial to focus on maintaining robust security and ongoing upkeep. These steps are essential to protect sensitive data, comply with Australian regulations, and ensure your integrations remain reliable. With 60% of organisations worldwide experiencing API-related data breaches in the past two years, safeguarding your API connectors isn’t just important - it’s necessary.
API keys act like digital keys to your data and services, so they should be handled as carefully as physical keys. One critical rule: never expose API keys in your app’s source code. As Anish Gandhi pointed out, exposing API endpoints can open the door for malicious users to exploit vulnerabilities.
In Bubble's API Connector, mark all sensitive parameters - such as client_id and client_secret - as private. This ensures they’re removed from your app’s code files and hidden from end-users, even in the developer console.
Dynamic parameters, like refresh_token, should be stored securely in your database with strict privacy rules. Gandhi highlights that without these safeguards, such parameters can become easy targets. Applying rules that limit access based on user login status can help prevent unauthorised access.
Another key step is sanitising initialised API calls. Replace original data with placeholders to avoid exposing sensitive information during debugging or testing.
To stay ahead of potential issues, monitor API key usage through audit logs and rotate keys regularly. If a token is compromised, disable it immediately and generate a new one. Additionally, limit API permissions to the bare minimum required for your application to function. This "least privilege" approach restricts access to only the data and functions your app truly needs.
Beyond technical measures, Australian businesses must also adhere to strict legal privacy requirements.
Australian businesses are bound by stringent data protection laws, particularly the Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles (APPs), which set clear standards for handling personal information. Compliance is especially critical for API integrations involving Australian services.
Integrate privacy by design into every phase of API development. For example, if your API collects personal information, notify users beforehand and explain how their data will be used.
Where possible, use de-identified data to minimise privacy risks. If personal identifiers aren’t essential, remove or encrypt them before processing. This approach reduces exposure to unnecessary risks.
For APIs handling personal data, conduct Privacy Impact Assessments (PIAs) to identify potential issues before they arise. Document how your API integrations collect, store, and use personal information, ensuring you have a legal basis for each use.
Transparency is key. Provide users with clear, accessible privacy notices that explain what information your API collects and how it’s used.
To further protect stored data, implement strong security measures. This includes encrypting data both in transit and at rest, enforcing robust authentication protocols, and maintaining detailed access logs. Australian organisations also face additional requirements under frameworks like APRA’s CPS 234 and the Security of Critical Infrastructure (SOCI) Act.
A strong governance structure is vital for API security. Alarmingly, only 52% of enterprises conduct regular API security testing, leaving gaps that could be exploited. Appoint a senior executive to oversee API security and establish a cross-functional team responsible for managing the API lifecycle - from design to retirement.
Regular audits of API interactions are also essential. Using AI-powered anomaly detection can help identify and address compliance or security issues before they escalate.
Finally, remember that managing API-related incidents can be challenging. In fact, 95% of companies report difficulties due to unclear roles and responsibilities. Clear documentation and well-defined processes can empower your team to respond quickly and effectively when problems arise.
Creating effective API connectors in Bubble involves a careful, step-by-step approach that blends functionality with strong security measures. Start by installing the API Connector plugin and thoroughly reviewing the external API’s documentation to establish a solid and secure foundation.
Authentication plays a critical role in safeguarding your API integrations. Whether you're using API keys, header-based authentication, or OAuth 2.0, always mark sensitive parameters as private. Store dynamic tokens, such as refresh tokens, in a secure manner to ensure your data remains protected.
Leverage Bubble's "Initialize Call" feature to test each API call thoroughly before going live. This step helps catch potential issues early, reducing the risk of disruptions in your live application.
Incorporate error-handling workflows and regularly monitor audit logs to maintain the stability and security of your integrations. At the same time, don’t overlook the importance of legal compliance. Adhering to the Privacy Act 1988 and the Australian Privacy Principles is essential, especially when handling sensitive user data.
The stakes for API security are high. For instance, API breaches cost organisations an average of $6.1 million. The 2022 Optus breach, which exposed the personal information of nearly 40% of Australia's population through a vulnerable API endpoint, underscores the real-world impact of neglecting security.
Begin with a straightforward API integration to build your confidence, then progress to more complex connections. Documenting your configurations and solutions along the way will save time and effort in future projects. With projections showing that over 80% of Australian businesses will integrate APIs into their operations by 2026, developing these skills now will keep you ahead of the curve. Remember, API integration is an iterative process - test each change thoroughly and validate your configurations with external tools like Postman for added assurance.
To ensure your API keys and credentials stay safe when using Bubble, here are some essential tips:
By sticking to these practices, you can protect your app's data and maintain strong security for your integrations.
To configure OAuth 2.0 for Australian APIs, start by registering your application with the API provider. This step provides you with a client ID and secret, which are essential for authentication. Next, set up the authorisation request by specifying the redirect URI, the necessary scopes, and the response type. For most cases, the authorisation code flow is recommended. This involves redirecting users to the API's authorisation server, where they grant access. Once authorised, you'll receive an authorisation code, which you exchange for an access token by making a request to the token endpoint. Always store tokens securely to avoid unauthorised access.
To handle token expiration effectively, use short-lived access tokens (commonly valid for about an hour) paired with long-lived refresh tokens. When an access token expires, your application should detect the error and use the refresh token to obtain a new one - no user interaction required. This is done by sending a POST request to the token endpoint, including the grant_type=refresh_token parameter and the refresh token. This method keeps the process secure while maintaining a smooth experience for users.
To customise API calls in Bubble for Australian standards, you'll need to focus on a few key areas:
$1,234.56. You can configure this directly within your API calls or apply custom formatting to ensure amounts are displayed appropriately.
By fine-tuning these details, your API integrations will align seamlessly with Australian requirements and expectations.
