Why we invested in Shabodi: Unlocking 5G’s full potential for developers

Programmable networks (LTE, 5G/6G, Wi-Fi 6/7, and non-terrestrial networks) enable virtual networks with varying resource allocations on the same physical infrastructure. For instance, industrial IoT applications might need low bandwidth and low latency, while autonomous vehicles require low latency and high reliability. Managing these requirements across multiple networks operated by different public network providers or multi-domain private networks in an enterprise, each with unique APIs, is complex. Additionally, there are various standards bodies, all looking to expose telco capabilities through network APIs, increasing the level of complexity for application developers who often lack the expertise to configure and orchestrate these networks. As a result, developers are too often deterred from building network-aware applications when dealing with so much complexity of networks and standards

Shabodi is addressing these challenges head-on. They allow application developers to build portable network-aware applications via a unified, simplified API framework that abstracts the complexity of multivendor and provider network engineering and configuration. Shabodi achieves this through its proprietary programmable network platform that automates network service discovery, translates multi-vendor network APIs, and derives associated parameters using AI/ML and session-based network orchestration. This allows developers to focus on application logic rather than intricate network configurations. Additionally, Shabodi’s “network-aware application developer sandbox” simulates various network conditions, allowing developers to build optimized applications for different environments. This unique offering in the market will accelerate the development of robust 5G and other network-aware applications.

Shabodi’s platform empowers industries like manufacturing, mining, and the public sector to harness the power of advanced networks in their applications. In manufacturing, it can enable real-time monitoring of equipment, predictive maintenance, and optimized supply chain management. In mining, it can support remote operations, safety systems, and efficient resource extraction. For the public sector, Shabodi can facilitate smart city initiatives, public safety applications, and improved citizen services.   

We’re excited to invest in co-founder and CEO Vikram Chopra, co-founder and CTO Harpreet Geekee, and the broader Shabodi team. With a combined 50+ years of experience in tech and telecom, they have a proven track record of success. Vikram’s background in founding and exiting multiple startups, combined with his leadership roles in telecommunications, makes him an ideal leader. Harpreet’s deep technical expertise, honed through decades at top tech firms- Cisco, Juniper Networks, Nortel, is essential for driving product development. Their complementary skill sets make them a formidable team. The founding team is further complemented by Ramesh Kaza, an early investor and a former executive from Cisco, augmented by a team of industry executives and experts spanning the ecosystem.

We believe Shabodi’s technology is not just a solution, but a potential revolution in the programmable network landscape. By partnering with them, we aim to accelerate the adoption of 5G solutions in North America and Europe. Their platform’s ability to streamline network services discovery, transformation, and exposure and their developer-focused tools position them as a strong player in this growing market, inspiring excitement for the future of 5G and next-generation network adoption.

Andy Duong is an investor at Samsung Next. Samsung Next’s investment strategy is limited to its own views and does not reflect the vision or strategy of any other Samsung business unit, including, but not limited to, Samsung Electronics.