What Is Telephony Application Programming Interface (TAPI)?

In the early days of personal computing, telephones were a very different animal than they are today. They were large and clunky, with buttons that were often difficult to use. They also required a separate device called a modem to connect to the internet. The Telephony Application Programming Interface (TAPI) was introduced in 1995 as a way for Windows users to connect their computers directly to telephone services without dealing with modems or other hardware devices. TAPI enabled computers running Windows 95 or later versions of Windows operating systems to auto-detect and install communication hardware on the PC. By providing an application programming interface that was completely independent of the physical hardware configuration of each computer system, TAPI removed the need for users to manually configure their computers to make calls using VoIP services like Skype or Google Voice. TAPI is like the driver of your car. It can take all kinds of requests and go to different places to do them. For example, TAPI will take that request and send it to the telephony device if you want to make a call. TAPI isn't just any old driver. It's a multi-talented one! It can also handle voice calls and data calls, so even if you don't have a car, TAPI can still get you where you're going. TAPI is an essential part of your phone's software. It lets you connect to the internet and other phones to check email or video chat with friends. The acronym is "Telephony Application Programming Interface," which allows you to interact with your phone's hardware and software. For instance, if you want to make a call, TAPI will allow you to dial numbers on the keypad, but it also lets you transfer calls between different devices and manage your contact list. Is that not enough for you? TAPI can also do conference calls, park calls (aka "hold"), and more!