API (Application Programming Interface)
A way for software programs to communicate with each other, allowing developers to integrate AI capabilities into their applications.
From the archive. This restored glossary entry is educational, not a current vendor comparison. Product names, models, capabilities, pricing, and availability may have changed; verify operational details with primary sources.
APIs for AI
When you use ChatGPT's website, you're using their interface. When you build an app that uses GPT-4, you use their API.
APIs let developers:
- Send prompts and receive responses programmatically
- Build custom interfaces and workflows
- Integrate AI into existing applications
- Automate AI-powered tasks
Common AI APIs
OpenAI API: Access to GPT-4, DALL-E, Whisper, and more.
Anthropic API: Access to Claude models.
Google AI APIs: Gemini, PaLM, and various specialized models.
Hugging Face: Thousands of open-source models via unified API.
API Pricing Models
Most AI APIs charge per usage:
- Per token: Pay for input and output tokens
- Per request: Fixed cost per API call
- Per minute/hour: Time-based for certain services
- Subscription: Fixed monthly cost for quota
Understanding pricing matters for production use where costs can scale quickly.
API vs Interface
Use the interface when:
- Exploring capabilities
- Occasional personal use
- Tasks don't require integration
Use the API when:
- Building applications
- Automating workflows
- Need custom behavior
- Volume requires better pricing