The LinkedIn Groups API, which opens up the possibility of embedding functionality such as discussions on websites or creating mobile apps, is now available.

Announced on June 30 in the LinkedIn blog the Groups API had already been added as both a JavaScript and a RESTful API on the LinkedIn developers site and full REST documentation was posted at the beginning of June. While there's no equivalent documentation.for JavaScript developers they are provided with raw access functions to make use of the REST calls.

The Groups API enables members to view and interact with groups off linkedin.com with the same business rules that apply on the site.

It can enable applications to:

• Get Group Discussions by Popularity and Recency
• Get My Group Memberships
• Get Suggested Groups
• Join a Group
• Post new group discussions
• Comment, like and follow group discussions
• Establish connections with other professionals

An example of its deployment is on Microsoft's Worldwide Partner Conference 2011 site:

Developers have been asking for a LinkedIn Groups API for months - now it seems the wait is over and we can expect to see many more websites with LinkedIn activity.

More information

Get started with LinkedIn APIs on LinkedIn Developers

See also:

LinkedIn Developer Network opens

LinkedIn has an API

Using LinkedIn (book review)