The ETSI White Paper defines “Edge Native” as a design paradigm where applications are built to specifically leverage the unique constraints and capabilities of Multi-access Edge Computing environments, such as limited resources and user mobility. It highlights how the ETSI ISG MEC standard, in synergy with 3GPP specifications, provides essential interoperability footprints and API design principles to support this approach alongside open-source initiatives. The document emphasizes that fully realizing edge capabilities requires joint efforts between standards bodies and the open-source community to address the specific needs of developers. This work aligns with the upcoming MEC Phase 4, which will integrate cloud-native communication systems and container support to facilitate broader adoption of edge-native designs.
Keywords: edge native, multi-access edge computing, cloud native, MEC phase 4, API abstraction