Extension vs. API Provider
Softcodes Extension
- Installed from the VS Code Marketplace
- Manages UI, file operations, and workflows
- Fully open source
- Compatible with any provider
Softcodes API Provider (Built-in)
- Integrated with the extension
- Sign in to Softcodes (no API key needed)
- Free credits included on signup
- Access to cutting-edge coding models
- Simple pricing
Getting Started: Two Paths
Option 1: Built-in Provider (Recommended)
✅ Fastest setup, no manual configuration- Sign in at softcodes.ai
- Receive free credits on sign up
- Skip API key management entirely
- Start coding with the latest frontier models
Option 2: Bring Your Own Provider
⚡ More control, more customization- Choose from 30+ supported providers
- Get an API key from your chosen provider
- Configure it directly in Softcodes settings
- Flexibility to compare costs
- Access to different model families
- Backup options if one provider goes down
- Leverage exclusive models or region-specific optimizations
Why Use Multiple Providers?
- Cost efficiency → Compare usage pricing across providers
- Model diversity → Try different AI model capabilities
- Reliability → Failover if a provider has downtime
- Features → Some providers unlock unique features/models
- Regional performance → Lower latency with local data centers
What You’ll Find in This Section
1. Connecting Your First AI Provider (Beginner-friendly)
- Recommended starting providers
- How to obtain API keys
- Initial VS Code configuration
- Starting your first AI coding session
2. API Configuration Profiles (Advanced users)
- Manage multiple providers at once
- Switch models dynamically
- Securely store API keys
- Optimize providers for specific tasks
Security Note
All API credentials are stored using VS Code Secret Storage:- Never stored in plain text
- Protected with industry-standard practices
- Keys remain safe, even across sessions