inference — Running a trained model to get answers — the phase where AI is actually used, as opposed to trained.
context window — The maximum amount of text a model can consider at once — its working memory for the current conversation or task.
open weights — A model whose trained parameters are published for anyone to download and run — unlike API-only models you can access but never possess.
Why it matters
Separates permanent free tiers from expiring trial credits and names the real costs of each: rate ceilings, reduced context windowThe maximum amount of text a model can consider at once — its working memory for the current conversation or task.Full definition → windows, and providers that train on your prompts by default.
