Media metadata and media files are different products with different rights. For a candidate in Media APIs, identify whether it returns catalog metadata, thumbnails, streams, or user libraries.
Test search, pagination, regional availability, attribution, and license terms with synthetic or publicly permitted queries. Check stale records, missing artwork, redirects, and content removed after initial ingestion. If a stream is involved, verify playback rights rather than assuming a URL grants permission. Use minimal-scope credentials and keep them out of screenshots and logs.
Measure latency and quota during a realistic browse session. Plan for provider downtime and data deletion requests. A media API is suitable only if its legal terms and failure modes match the actual app experience.
Akousa