TMDB API and Session ID

In TMDB’s API, a session ID is primarily used for user authentication and account-related operations, such as:

  • Managing watchlists
  • Creating and editing lists
  • Rating movies and TV shows
  • Marking content as a favorite

Types of Sessions in TMDB API

1. Guest Session ID

  • Used when a user is not logged in but wants to rate movies or TV shows.
  • Created using the 3/authentication/guest_session/new endpoint.
  • Expires after 24 hours.

2. User Session ID

  • Requires authentication via a request token and login credentials.
  • Created using the /3/authentication/session/new endpoint.
  • Used for actions tied to a TMDB account, such as managing watchlists and lists.