MAPI: Messaging Application Programming Interface
* Purpose: MAPI is a set of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) that enables software applications to communicate with messaging systems like email clients (Outlook, Thunderbird, etc.).
* Key Functionality: MAPI allows developers to:
* Send and receive emails.
* Manage contacts, calendars, and tasks.
* Access and manipulate email folders.
* Work with email attachments.
* Example: If you use a third-party program to manage your Outlook contacts, that program likely utilizes MAPI to interact with Outlook.
TAPI: Telephony Application Programming Interface
* Purpose: TAPI is a set of APIs designed to provide applications with access to telephony hardware and services. It's primarily used for voice communication.
* Key Functionality: TAPI allows developers to:
* Make and receive phone calls.
* Manage call control features (hold, transfer, etc.).
* Access phone book information.
* Integrate telephony into other applications.
* Example: A call center software might use TAPI to manage incoming calls, connect callers to agents, and record conversations.
Key Differences:
* Focus: MAPI focuses on email and related messaging, while TAPI is designed for voice communication.
* Scope: MAPI is primarily used for email clients and messaging applications, while TAPI has a broader scope, enabling integration of voice communication into various software.
* Evolution: TAPI has had multiple versions (TAPI 1.x, TAPI 2.x, TAPI 3.x) with increasing functionality. MAPI also has its own versions (MAPI 1.0, MAPI 1.0.1, MAPI 3.0, etc.).
In Summary:
* MAPI: The bridge between your applications and your email system.
* TAPI: The bridge between your applications and your phone system.
If you're interested in developing software that interacts with email or voice communication, understanding MAPI and TAPI is essential.