What is unique about the Bulk API?

The Bulk API is designed specifically for handling large volumes of data efficiently and operates asynchronously. This means that when you submit a bulk request to the API, you do not need to wait for the operation to complete; instead, the request is processed in the background, and you can check the status of the operation later. The asynchronous nature of the Bulk API enables it to handle large datasets without overwhelming system resources, making it ideal for bulk data operations such as loading, updating, or deleting large records.

Furthermore, the Bulk API can support both JSON and XML formats, providing flexibility in how data is structured. Its primary purpose is to facilitate operations on hundreds of thousands or millions of records, which is crucial for businesses that regularly manage extensive datasets.

In contrast, other options describe characteristics that do not align with the functionality of the Bulk API. Real-time notifications pertain more to streaming APIs or change data capture mechanisms, while single record operations are typically handled by the REST or SOAP APIs. Additionally, the emphasis on synchronous operations and XML support does not accurately represent the operational model of the Bulk API.