token based billing

Token based billing is a usage-based pricing model where customers pay for AI features based on the number of tokens consumed, rather than a flat subscription fee. In the context of Windows and developer tools, this model is exemplified by GitHub Copilot's transition to GitHub AI Credits, which replaced premium requests with token metering for advanced AI features like chat and code review. This shift reflects a broader trend in enterprise IT and AI services, where Microsoft and other providers are moving toward pay-per-use pricing to align costs with actual generative AI usage. Discussions on WindowsForum cover the implications for developers, IT administrators, and organizations managing AI tool costs.