This week, Mailgun announced a number of changes to its email validation API. The updates include new features, an SLA, and a new pricing model. As email and marketing practices evolve, Mailgun has gained more understanding regarding the importance of email validation. All the API changes reflect this evolving market, and the company anticipates the changes will help it better serve its email clients.
First, the new features. The Mailbox Verification feature allows users to determine if a specific mailbox exists on a target domain. The Role-based Address Check checks whether a target email address is role-based (e.g. a distribution list - distribution lists often display a higher complaint rate as list members aren't expecting emails). The Disposable Mailbox Detection feature alerts a user whether the address is a known disposable mailbox (disposable mailboxes are often used for fraudulent purposes). A new Reporting Dashboard allows a user to view usage and the number of valid/invalid addresses identified. Finally, users can now apply rate limits to the validation API key to manage costs.
Next, Mailgun has now incorporated the email validation API into its general SLA. Mailgun had an existing SLA for other services, but the email validation API did not fall under the SLA. Mailgun has now come to know that its email validation API commonly sits within the core of its clients' infrastructure. Core components are expected to meet an SLA and Mailgun has provided.
Finally, Mailgun has rolled out a new, usage-based pricing methodology for the API. This is a major change from its previous pricing structure, and Mailgun worked specifically with larger customers to help them transition prior to this announcement. The first 100 email validations per billing cycle are free, and the more you validate, the less your cost per validation will be. To help users estimate cost, check out the pricing calculator. Further, Mailgun is providing free access toe the API and its new features for thirty days, starting June 27th.
