Who says that tokens are money? Local models are getting really good. For now, yes, if you want the best outcomes, you need to purchase tokens. But in the future, that may not be the case.

I'd argue that local models still cost money, albeit less than the vendors would cost. Unless you happen to live off-grid and get your own electricity for free. I suppose there are free tiers available that work for some things as well.

But with edge-case exceptions aside, yes, tokens cost money.

> Local models are getting really good.

They are great for basic tasks like summarization and translation but for the best results from coding agents and from 90% of so-called AI startups who are using these APIs, they are all purchasing tokens.

No different to operating a slot-machine towards vibe-coders who are the AI companies favourite type of customer - spending endless amounts of money on tokens for another spin at fixing an error they don't understand.