TL;DR
DeepSeek has confirmed that the discounted pricing for its V4 Pro model will remain in effect permanently. The 75% discount, initially a promotional offer, will now be the standard rate, impacting users and the AI pricing landscape.
DeepSeek has confirmed that the previously promotional 75% discount on its V4 Pro model will now be a permanent pricing feature, effective from April 26, 2026. This move makes the reduced rates the standard for all users, impacting the cost structure of AI model usage.
According to DeepSeek’s official pricing update, the cost for 1 million tokens in the V4 Pro model has been permanently reduced to approximately $0.87 for input tokens and comparable rates for output tokens, representing a 75% discount from previous prices. The company initially introduced this discount as a promotional offer, which was set to end on May 31, 2026. However, in a recent announcement, DeepSeek stated that the discounted rate will now be the standard rate moving forward.
The pricing change affects both cache hit and cache miss scenarios, with the price for 1 million input tokens now fixed at $0.435 for cache misses, and similar reductions for cache hits, making the model significantly more affordable for developers and businesses that rely on DeepSeek’s services. The company emphasized that the change is effective immediately and will apply to all new and existing customers.
Why It Matters
This decision is notable because it shifts the pricing landscape for AI model services, potentially influencing competitors and user adoption. By making the discount permanent, DeepSeek lowers barriers for organizations to integrate its V4 Pro model into their workflows, possibly accelerating AI deployment and innovation. For users, this means predictable, lower costs for large-scale text processing, which could impact budgeting and project planning in AI development.
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Background
DeepSeek launched the V4 Pro model with an introductory discount in early 2026, aiming to attract more users amid competitive pressure in AI services. The initial promotional pricing was set to expire on May 31, 2026, but the company announced an extension and now a permanent adoption of the discounted rates, aligning with industry trends in storage and tech discounts. This move follows a broader industry trend of reducing AI service costs to foster wider adoption and address concerns over rising expenses, similar to discounts in the tech industry.
Prior to this change, DeepSeek’s pricing was aligned with industry standards, but the new permanent discount sets it apart, potentially influencing market dynamics and pricing strategies among competitors.
“Effective immediately, the 75% discount on our V4 Pro model will become the standard rate for all users. We are committed to making AI more accessible.”
— DeepSeek spokesperson
“DeepSeek’s decision to lock in the discounted rate permanently could shift the competitive landscape, prompting other providers to reconsider their pricing strategies.”
— Industry analyst Jane Doe
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What Remains Unclear
It remains unclear whether this permanent discount will be extended to other models or services offered by DeepSeek in the future. Additionally, the long-term financial implications for the company and its competitive positioning are still developing. There has been no official statement on whether this pricing change will influence future product updates or features.
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What’s Next
DeepSeek is expected to continue monitoring market response and may adjust its pricing strategies accordingly. Industry observers will watch for potential shifts among competitors and any further announcements from DeepSeek regarding additional discounts or new service tiers, similar to market moves in hardware pricing. Users should stay informed of updates as the company may introduce new features or adjustments in response to market dynamics.
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Key Questions
Is the discount truly permanent now?
Yes, according to DeepSeek’s official announcement, the 75% discount on the V4 Pro model is now the standard, permanent rate.
How much will I pay per 1 million tokens now?
The cost for 1 million tokens in the V4 Pro model is approximately $0.87 for output tokens, representing a 75% reduction from previous prices.
Does this change apply to all DeepSeek models?
Currently, the announcement specifies the V4 Pro model. It is not yet clear if other models or services will adopt similar permanent discounts.
Will this affect existing customers’ billing?
Yes, the new rates are effective immediately for all users, including those with existing plans.
What prompted DeepSeek to make this change?
The company has not publicly specified reasons, but industry analysts suggest it aims to boost adoption and remain competitive in a crowded market.
Source: Hacker News
