Hive Academy
Learn how AGI-Hive works
AI & Billing Explained
Understanding APIs, tokens, costs, and how to stay safe with your budget.
What is an API?
An API (Application Programming Interface) is like a cable connecting AGI-Hive to AI engines. When you ask the Hive to do something, it sends requests through these cables.
An API is just a cable that connects you to the AI. The Hive handles all the wiring.
Why is AI Metered?
AI engines like Claude, GPT, and Gemini cost money to run. They use massive data centers and expensive hardware. So you pay for what you use — like electricity or water.
What are Tokens?
Tokens are tiny chunks of text that AI models process. A word is usually 1-2 tokens. Longer messages = more tokens = higher cost.
Don't worry — the Hive converts all of this into simple dollar amounts for you. You never need to count tokens yourself.
Different Engines, Different Prices
Each AI engine has strengths and costs. The Hive routes tasks to the best one for the job — balancing quality and cost.
Cost Safety: How the Hive Protects You
AGI-Hive has built-in guardrails to prevent surprise bills. The Cost Safety system lets you set limits and stay in control.
New users should keep Safe Mode ON and start with low caps. You can always increase them later once you understand your usage patterns.
Beginner-Friendly Presets
Not sure where to start? Here are two recommended configurations:
- • Safe Mode: ON
- • Monthly cap: $5
- • Daily cap: $0.50
- • Providers: Gemini only
- • Best for: Learning, exploring
- • Safe Mode: ON
- • Monthly cap: $20
- • Daily cap: $2
- • Providers: Claude + GPT
- • Best for: Active development
Presets are coming soon. For now, configure manually in Cost Safety settings.