When working with Python, there may be times when you need to add Outlook contacts programmatically. This can be useful for automating tasks or integrating with other systems. In this article, we will explore three different ways to achieve this goal.

Option 1: Using the win32com.client module

The win32com.client module provides a way to interact with COM objects, including Outlook. To add contacts using this module, you will need to have Outlook installed on your machine.

import win32com.client

def add_outlook_contact(name, email):
    outlook = win32com.client.Dispatch("Outlook.Application")
    namespace = outlook.GetNamespace("MAPI")
    contacts = namespace.GetDefaultFolder(10)
    contact = contacts.Items.Add()
    contact.FullName = name
    contact.Email1Address = email
    contact.Save()

In this code snippet, we first create an instance of the Outlook application using the Dispatch method. We then get the MAPI namespace and the default contacts folder. Next, we create a new contact item and set its properties, such as the full name and email address. Finally, we save the contact.

Option 2: Using the exchangelib library

If you don’t have Outlook installed or prefer a more platform-independent solution, you can use the exchangelib library. This library provides a high-level API for interacting with Microsoft Exchange servers, including adding contacts.

from exchangelib import Account, Credentials, EWSDateTime, EWSTimeZone, DELEGATE

def add_outlook_contact(name, email):
    credentials = Credentials(username='your_username', password='your_password')
    account = Account(primary_smtp_address='your_email_address', credentials=credentials, autodiscover=True, access_type=DELEGATE)
    contact = account.contacts.create(DisplayName=name, EmailAddresses=[email])
    contact.save()

In this code snippet, we first create a Credentials object with your username and password. We then create an Account object using your email address and the credentials. Next, we create a new contact using the create method of the contacts property of the Account object. Finally, we save the contact.

Option 3: Using the pywin32 library

Another option is to use the pywin32 library, which provides Python bindings for the Win32 API. This allows you to interact with Outlook and other Windows applications.

import win32com.client

def add_outlook_contact(name, email):
    outlook = win32com.client.Dispatch("Outlook.Application")
    namespace = outlook.GetNamespace("MAPI")
    contacts = namespace.GetDefaultFolder(10)
    contact = contacts.Items.Add()
    contact.FullName = name
    contact.Email1Address = email
    contact.Save()

This code snippet is similar to Option 1, as it also uses the win32com.client module. The difference is that we are not explicitly specifying the Outlook version, allowing the library to use the default version installed on the machine.

After exploring these three options, it is clear that Option 2, using the exchangelib library, is the better choice. It provides a more platform-independent solution and does not require Outlook to be installed. Additionally, it offers a higher-level API, making it easier to work with. However, if you already have Outlook installed and prefer a simpler solution, Option 1 or Option 3 can also be viable alternatives.