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2026-09-18 · 4 min read

Getting Started with Air Inference for Developers

Discover how developers can enable AI models, purchase Air Credits, and utilize the /api/v1 chat completions endpoint in the Air Inference marketplace.

Getting Started with Air Inference for Developers

Air Inference is revolutionizing the way developers interact with AI models by providing a two-sided marketplace for AI inference. Whether you are looking to enable AI models, purchase Air Credits, or utilize the /api/v1 chat completions endpoint, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to get started with Air Inference.

What is Air Inference?

Air Inference is a platform designed to connect developers with providers of AI models that are compatible with OpenAI's APIs. Developers can top up their accounts with Air Credits, which allow them to access various AI inference services. Meanwhile, providers can list their AI models, making them available for developers to call via a standardized API. This model not only simplifies the process of using AI but also creates an ecosystem where innovation can thrive.

Enabling AI Models

To start using AI models through Air Inference, developers need to understand the process of enabling these models within the marketplace. Here’s how you can do it:

  1. Create an Account: The first step is to create an account on the Air Inference platform. This will allow you to manage your Air Credits and access the API.

  2. Browse Available Models: Once you are logged in, you can browse through the various AI models available on the marketplace. These models can range from text generation to image processing. Each model comes with specific documentation and usage guidelines.

  3. Choose a Provider: After identifying a model that suits your needs, you can select a provider. This is an important step as different providers may offer different performance levels or pricing structures. Review the provider’s details, including their reputation and the specific capabilities of their model.

  4. Enable the Model: Once you have selected a provider, enabling the model is usually straightforward. You will typically need to follow the provider's instructions to integrate the model into your application. This may involve setting up API keys or configuring specific parameters.

Purchasing Air Credits

To utilize the services on Air Inference, you will need to purchase Air Credits. Here’s how to do that:

  1. Log in to Your Account: Head over to the Air Inference platform and log in to your account.

  2. Access the Billing Section: Navigate to the billing or credits section of your account dashboard. This area will display your current balance of Air Credits and options for purchasing more.

  3. Select an Amount: Choose the amount of Air Credits you wish to purchase. Different packages may be available, often with discounts for bulk purchases.

  4. Complete the Transaction: Follow the prompts to complete your purchase. Once the transaction is successful, your Air Credits will be added to your account balance.

Using the /api/v1 Chat Completions Endpoint

After enabling a model and purchasing Air Credits, you can start making calls to the /api/v1 chat completions endpoint. This endpoint allows you to generate conversational responses using the AI models available in the marketplace. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use it:

  1. Set Up Your Environment: Ensure that you have the necessary environment set up to make API calls. This could be a local development environment or a cloud-based setup.

  2. Authentication: Before making a request, ensure you have your API key ready. This key is essential for authenticating your requests. You can usually find your API key in your account settings.

  3. Make a Request: Use a tool like curl or any HTTP client in your programming language of choice to make a request to the /api/v1 endpoint. Here’s a basic example using curl:

    curl -X POST https://api.airinference.com/api/v1/chat/completions \
    -H "Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_KEY" \
    -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
    -d '{
       "model": "your_selected_model",
       "messages": [
           {"role": "user", "content": "Hello, how can I use Air Inference?"}
       ]
    }'
    

    In this example, replace YOUR_API_KEY with your actual API key and your_selected_model with the model you enabled earlier. This request sends a message to the AI model and retrieves a completion.

  4. Handle the Response: The API will respond with a JSON object containing the AI's generated response. Make sure to handle the response appropriately in your application, checking for any errors and extracting the content you need.

Best Practices for Using Air Inference

As you start to use Air Inference, consider the following best practices:

  • Monitor Your Usage: Keep an eye on your Air Credits balance and usage. This will help you avoid unexpected charges and manage your budget effectively.

  • Review Documentation: Each model may have unique parameters and capabilities. Always review the provider's documentation to understand how to use the model effectively.

  • Experiment with Different Models: Don’t hesitate to try different models from various providers. This experimentation can help you find the best fit for your specific use case.

  • Provide Feedback: If you encounter issues or have suggestions, providing feedback can help improve the platform and the models offered.

Conclusion

Air Inference offers developers a streamlined way to access a wide array of AI models through a user-friendly marketplace. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can enable AI models, purchase Air Credits, and efficiently utilize the /api/v1 chat completions endpoint. This platform not only makes AI more accessible but also fosters a vibrant ecosystem for innovation. As you embark on your journey with Air Inference, remember to stay engaged with the community and keep exploring the possibilities that AI can offer.