How to integrate third-party APIs in Bubble

To integrate a third‑party API in Bubble, you use the API Connector plugin, set up the API call with the exact URL, method, headers, and authentication the provider requires, initialize the call so Bubble understands the data structure, then you can run it inside workflows (like “When button is clicked → Plugins → API Call”). This is how Bubble apps talk to external services like Stripe, Airtable, or any REST API.

What “Integrating an API” Means in Bubble

Bubble does not fetch external data automatically. You must “teach” Bubble how the API works. The API Connector lets you create reusable API calls that Bubble treats like actions or data sources. Once a call is defined and initialized, you can:

• Run it in a workflow (e.g., send data to a service)
• Use it as a Data source on the page (e.g., display API results in a repeating group)
• Trigger it from backend workflows for automation

How to Set Up an API in Bubble (Step‑by‑Step)

Below is the simplest correct pattern for almost every API integration in Bubble.

• Install Bubble’s API Connector plugin (Plugins tab → Add plugins → API Connector).
• Create a new API, then add a new call. Give it a name like “Send Message” or “Get Products”.
• Set method: GET, POST, PATCH, etc., depending on the API docs.
• Paste the full URL exactly as the provider specifies.
• Add required headers (for example Content-Type or Authorization). A real header looks like:
  \`\`\`
  Authorization: Bearer your_api_key Content-Type: application/json ```
• If the call needs a body (like POST), choose JSON and enter the fields exactly as required.
• Check Use as Action if you want to trigger it in a workflow (common for “Send data” APIs).
• Click Initialize call. Bubble makes a real request to the API and reads the response structure.

Example (A Generic POST Call)

This shows what a working JSON body often looks like in the API Connector:

{
  "name": "John Doe",
  "email": "[email protected]"  // API expects this exact format
}

Using the API Call in Your App

• In a workflow: “Plugins → Your API Name → Your Call”. Pass dynamic data from your inputs.
• As a data source: set a repeating group or dropdown to “Get Data from External API”.
• In backend workflows: perfect for webhooks, scheduled tasks, and server‑side automation.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting to initialize the call (Bubble won’t know the response format).
• Sending wrong headers like missing Authorization.
• Using query parameters inside the body instead of the URL.
• Not checking privacy rules if the workflow needs logged‑in user data.