ICE Mortgage Technology is shaking up the mortgage market by announcing the sunset of legacy integrations for its Encompass platform by October 31, 2025. This move is poised to push the market forward into a more modern era, even if it means some vendors will have to adapt reluctantly.
In an email communication with partners, ICE disclosed that the Encompass SDK (Software Development Kit) will be shutting down alongside the Technology Partner Network, Total Quality Loan Services, PSDK, and ePass on the scheduled date. This initiative is aimed at encouraging companies to transition to the Encompass Partner Network and Encompass Development Partner Connect. These newer platforms utilize a secure, cloud-based open API structure launched in 2021.
Amy Cross, the director of ICE’s API platform, shared exciting statistics about the immediate success of the Developer Connect platform, with nearly 400 million calls and 80 million webhook notifications in a week. This evident growth underscores the direction ICE is moving towards and the significant investment they have made in the API infrastructure.
From a lender’s perspective, making the shift to an API-based model allows for a more thorough assessment of their tech stack and troubleshooting potential issues. ICE has analyzed trends and observed a substantial reduction in dependency on the SDK from its largest user. The transition to a more streamlined API structure is already proving beneficial for lenders like Matthew VanFossen, who runs Absolute Home Mortgage Corp. and Mortgage Automation Technologies.
There is recognition that not all vendors will meet the October 31, 2025 deadline, prompting ICE to offer resources, webinars, and extended SDK access for a fee if necessary. Despite rumors circulating for years about the sunset of SDK, ICE assures all vendors and lenders that they should be well-prepared for this transition.
VanFossen highlights the advantages of embracing API platforms, including improved speeds, enhanced security, and smoother interactions with vendors. He emphasized the importance for lenders to conduct a thorough assessment of their tech stack and communicate with vendors to ensure a seamless transition.
Vendors that have already integrated with the API system are expected to have a competitive edge, enabling them to cater effectively to lender requirements compared to legacy competitors who will need to invest time and money in transitioning to the new platform.
As ICE Mortgage Technology continues to drive the mortgage industry towards innovation and efficiency, it is vital for vendors and lenders to embrace these changes to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving market. By preparing early and adapting swiftly, stakeholders can position themselves for success in the future landscape of the mortgage industry.
