What is an Email API?
When an application needs to send emails on demand, an Email API is the layer that makes it possible.
An Email API, or Application Programming Interface, allows developers to send, receive, and manage emails directly from their applications by connecting to an email service provider.
Instead of sending emails manually or through an email client, an Email API enables programmatic email delivery using code. This makes it suitable for applications that need reliable, automated, and scalable email communication.
What are the advantages of using an Email API?
Using an Email API allows you to send large volumes of emails quickly while maintaining control over content, timing, and delivery logic.
Email APIs also provide access to delivery metrics, support dynamic content and personalization, improve deliverability through built-in controls, and offer stronger security options compared to manual sending methods.
What can an Email API be used for?
Email APIs are commonly used for transactional emails that are triggered by user actions or system events. Examples include one-time passwords, account notifications, monthly statements with attachments, card transaction alerts, welcome emails, order confirmations, delivery updates, and cart abandonment reminders.
They can also be used for promotional emails such as holiday campaigns, special offers, product launches, and new arrivals, especially when these messages need to be triggered or personalized at scale.
What is the difference between an Email API and SMTP?
SMTP is a protocol that defines how emails are transferred from a sender to an email server. It is typically used by email clients and basic integrations to send messages.
An Email API, on the other hand, allows applications and services to communicate directly with an email platform through structured requests. This provides greater flexibility, better error handling, and more control over email delivery and reporting.
