Batch API is an API pattern that accepts many independent requests together for deferred, bulk processing. Instead of waiting for each API call to finish, an application submits a job and retrieves results when processing is complete. Provider-specific limits, prices, file formats, and completion times vary.
Batch API
What Is a Batch API?
A batch API accepts many independent API requests together for deferred processing. Your app submits a job, then collects results later; stable request IDs let it match each result to its input.
How Batch Processing Works
- Prepare independent requests and assign IDs.
- Upload an array or JSONL file, then receive a job ID.
- Check status or receive a callback.
- Download results and reconcile successes, failures, and changed output order.
Batch API vs Real-Time API vs Bulk API
Terminology differs by provider, but this comparison is a useful default.
| Type | Response | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Batch API | Later, as a job | Many independent operations |
| Real-time API | During the request | User-facing actions |
| Bulk API | Usually later | High-volume imports or exports |
Benefits of a Batch API
Batching suits non-urgent batch computing workloads.
- Reduces request overhead and supports scheduled processing.
- May offer separate capacity limits or provider-specific pricing.
Practical Limits of Batch APIs
Deferred processing changes how applications handle errors.
- No interactive streaming, and results can be delayed.
- Partial failures, file limits, cancellation rules, and privacy requirements need planning.
- Retries must avoid duplicating write operations.
When to Use a Batch API
Use it when waiting is acceptable.
- Classify support tickets, generate embeddings, enrich records, create descriptions, run AI evaluations, or clean data nightly.
- Use synchronous calls for chat, payment confirmation, or other immediate user feedback.
Design Tips for Reliable Batch Jobs
Treat every item as traceable work.
- Use unique IDs, idempotency keys, input validation, and an input-to-output manifest.
- Keep retry queues and logs. Review API requests, API authentication, and provider API documentation.
Building Batch Workflows with Emergent
Emergent can help build full-stack apps that upload data, submit provider batch jobs, monitor status, reconcile result files, and show completed records. See how to build an email summariser and sentiment analyser for a related automation pattern. Build bulk-processing apps with Emergent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Your Questions, Answered
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What is batch mode?
Batch mode runs a prepared group of tasks without requiring an immediate response for each task.
What is a bulk API?
A bulk API commonly handles large imports, exports, or record updates. Its exact meaning depends on the provider.
What is the difference between a bulk API and a batch API?
A batch API groups requests or operations. A bulk API usually focuses on moving or changing large datasets, though the terms can overlap.
When should I use a batch API?
Use one for independent, high-volume work that can finish later, such as classification or scheduled enrichment.
Can I use a batch API for real-time applications?
Usually no. A real-time feature needs a synchronous API because users need an immediate result.
Can you give an example of batch processing?
An application can submit thousands of product records for AI-generated descriptions, then import completed results after the job finishes.
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