The Aircall Message API is part of Aircall’s developer toolkit, allowing external applications and services to interact programmatically with Aircall’s messaging capabilities. It helps businesses automate processes, build integrations, and streamline workflows related to SMS and MMS messaging.
IMPORTANT: Sending messages via API is only available on the Aircall Professional plan. To upgrade, please contact our Customer Success team.
This article explains how to use the Aircall Message API, select the correct endpoint for your needs, and comply with relevant messaging regulations.
Overview of the Message API
The Aircall Message API enables administrators to retrieve message activity, send SMS and MMS messages, and ensure compliance. When sending messages, you can choose between two distinct endpoints:
- Option 1: Send Message Skipping Aircall Inbox
- Option 2: Send Message in Agent Conversation
Each behaves differently, and it is not possible to use both endpoints on the same Aircall number simultaneously.
Selecting the proper endpoint
Before selecting an endpoint, please note:
- API Messaging is only available for Aircall numbers that are enabled for SMS.
- Aircall numbers with API Messaging can still be used for inbound and outbound calls in Aircall apps.
Option 1: Send Message Skipping Aircall Inbox endpoint
Using the Send Message Skipping Aircall Inbox endpoint allows an Aircall number to send and receive SMS or MMS messages that are not displayed in Aircall apps or included in webhooks. Messages are completely external, so your system must record them elsewhere.
Key details:
- Sent and received SMS/MMS do not appear in Aircall webhooks or apps.
- MMS is supported.
- Once configured with this endpoint, the number cannot send or receive messages from the Aircall app. To restore messaging in Aircall apps, the configuration must be removed.
Example use cases:
- Integrate Aircall with an external tool where users can view and reply to messages directly.
- Send one-time verification codes or automated messages (e.g., order confirmations, delivery updates).
- Send non-conversational marketing or promotional messages.
For implementation details, see Getting Started with Sending Messages Skipping Aircall inbox using Aircall’s API.
Option 2: Send Message in Agent Conversation endpoint
Using the Send Message in Agent Conversation endpoint allows messages sent via API to appear directly in Aircall apps. Unlike Option 1, this setup preserves visibility for users and enables ongoing conversations.
Key details:
- MMS via API is not supported.
- Sent and received SMS appear in Aircall apps and Message Event Webhooks.
- Combines automation with the ability for Aircall users to continue the conversation within the app.
Example use cases:
- Automatically greet customers who text your Aircall number, letting them know an agent will respond shortly.
- Send automated messages triggered by CRM events (for example, when a customer reaches a specific stage). Any replies from the customer appear in Aircall, allowing agents to continue the conversation seamlessly.
For setup instructions, see Getting Started with ‘Send Message in Agent Conversation’ Endpoint in Aircall’s API.
Aircall API messaging features and regulations
Regardless of which endpoint you use, messaging via API must follow industry standards and local regulations.
United States and Canada
- Automated and marketing SMS are allowed if your number is properly registered (see A2P 10DLC registration and toll-free guidelines) and you can demonstrate customer consent.
France
- Mobile lines are for personal and conversational use only. Automated or bulk SMS via API is prohibited, but conversational messaging remains permitted.
General guidance
- Mobile lines should be attached to a single agent who controls their usage.
- Always verify compliance with local regulations before implementing automated messaging.
IMPORTANT: Seek local legal guidance to ensure your messaging use case is compliant.
Considerations when using the Message API
Regulatory requirements
- US long codes and US/CA toll-free numbers must be fully registered before use.
- Only domestic messaging is supported, except between the US and Canada (same as messaging from Aircall apps).
Rate limits
Aircall limits API requests to 120 per minute for all endpoints. Additional hourly, daily, and monthly limits apply based on number type and country.
| Number type | Hourly limit | Daily limit | Monthly limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| US & CA numbers | 1,000 | 10,000 | 20,000 |
| French mobile lines | 100 | 1,000 | 10,000 |
| Other lines | 500 | 2,000 | 20,000 |
NOTE: Rate limits are subject to change without prior notice to ensure proper use.
Pricing
Access to the Send Message API is included in the Professional plan. Message volume from both API and app sources is combined on your invoice, and per-message fees are identical to those incurred through the Aircall apps.
To upgrade or learn more, please contact our Customer Success team.
To continue with your setup: