Headless commerce is an eCommerce architecture where the front-end part of the platform, such as a website and its user interface, is separated from the back-end that manages content, products, and transactions. For example, in headless commerce, the front-end communicates with the back-end via APIs (Application Programming Interfaces), allowing businesses to create customized, seamless shopping experiences without being held back by the limitations of typical traditional eCommerce platforms. For example, a clothing brand could use a headless commerce platform to manage its product catalog, inventory, and transactions on the back-end. The brand could have a custom-built website and a mobile app for the front-end. These channels display product information, process orders, and instantly update inventory using API to connect to the same back-end.

Headless commerce allows development teams to launch new features or channels faster since changes to the front-end don’t affect the back-end and vice versa. The eCommerce architecture gives businesses complete control over how the front-end looks and functions, allowing them to deliver unique customer experiences tailored to different consumers. Headless commerce also makes it easier for businesses to create consistent shopping experiences across various channels such as mobile apps, smart devices, and more.

Headless commerce heavily relies on API performance. If APIs are not optimized, the front-end may suffer, leading to slower load times or a lack of efficiency. This can be counteracted by regularly updating APIs and the front-end and back-end to ensure that the APIs remain secure and functional.