API-first means prioritizing your APIs as a foundational element, rather than focusing on a specific application, because your APIs can be utilized across a wide range of platformsdesktop, web, mobile, AI, even digital billboards. APIs serve many different purposes, so designing them with reusability in mind is crucial, though not always necessary in every case.
API-first doesnt mean ignoring the application itself; it means developing the API independently, considering the diverse use cases and potential consumers who will build applications and integrations using it. This approach ensures your APIs are versatile and ready to support various needs across multiple environments.