What Is an API
API (Application Programming Interface) is a set of rules and methods that allows one software solution to interact with another. Simply put, it’s a “bridge” between two systems: it enables them to exchange commands, data, and results in a standardized format. For a foundational overview, see the MDN API Guide.
This interface defines how programs “talk” to each other: what data can be requested, in what format it’s returned, and which actions can be performed. For example, when a weather app displays the current temperature, it retrieves that data via a weather service’s API. When a user logs into a website using Telegram — Telegram handles the process in the background.
There are several types of such interfaces:
- REST API. The most common type, based on the HTTP protocol, used in many web services. Learn more at RESTfulAPI.net.
- WebSocket API. Used for real-time data exchange.
- GraphQL. A flexible format that allows requesting only the necessary data.
Telegram API Options
Telegram offers several integration tools:
- Telegram Bot API
Allows developers to create bots that interact with users and exchange messages. They can also connect to external databases and manage keyboards, menus, and other features. - Telegram TDLib
This is a low-level interface designed for building custom Telegram clients. It gives full access to all Telegram functions — from displaying chats and sending media to managing accounts.
Full documentation is available on the Telegram API site.
What You Can Do With APIs
APIs are especially important for advertising and automation tasks. For example, they can be used to:
- Connect a Telegram bot to a CRM
- Launch message campaigns triggered by events
- Collect analytics on user activity
- Sync Telegram with external platforms (e.g., websites, marketplaces, or ad systems)
Why APIs Matter
An API is not a visual interface — it’s a “language” for machines to communicate. It’s invisible to users but makes it possible to embed Telegram into complex digital ecosystems — from automated sales funnels to analytics dashboards.
Even basic knowledge of how such tools work enables more flexible processes: automating channel management, integrating Telegram into business logic, and deploying custom solutions for specific project needs.
