The editor of Downcodes learned that Cohere has released a new generation API of its AI model - the V2 version, covering models such as Chat, Embed, Rerank and Classify. This move is aimed at improving compliance with industry standards, making it easier for developers to migrate, and gaining an advantage in competition with competitors such as OpenAI. Although Cohere currently has a low market share, the improvements in API V2 will undoubtedly enhance its competitiveness.
Cohere recently announced the launch of a new generation application programming interface (API) for its AI models. This update is called API V2 and covers models such as Chat, Embed, Rerank, and Classify.
Cohere made it clear that this update is designed to better align with industry standards so that developers can more easily switch applications to Cohere's model, especially when competing with competitors such as OpenAI, Anthropic, Google, Mistral, and Meta.

According to reports, Andreessen Horowitz partner Martin Casado shared a survey on social media, which showed that among 800 business leaders, OpenAI’s ChatGPT occupied 27% of the market share, while Cohere accounted for only 5%. Share ranks second to last. This shows that Cohere still needs to work harder to win over enterprise customers.
In API V2, one of the most important changes is that developers must specify the model version in API calls. Previously this field was optional, which could lead to unexpected behavior when new models were released. By enforcing model version specification, Cohere ensures that developers can maintain consistent application performance, especially when it comes to Embed models, where the use of different versions can have an impact on the results.
In addition, the updated Chat API has also been improved in terms of usability. Developers can now combine input parameters into a message array, instead of entering message, chat history and preface parameters separately. This change simplifies the input process and makes more complex use cases feasible, such as where the latest messages in a chat sequence can be assigned the role of a system or assistant.
Cohere's new API also enhances tool integration capabilities. In the V2 version, tools are defined using JSON schema instead of Python types, which makes the process more flexible and more compatible. Additionally, each tool call now has a unique ID, ensuring that the API correctly matches tool results with their corresponding calls, which was missing in the V1 API.
Regarding support for existing APIs, Cohere has confirmed that the V1 suite will continue to be supported, ensuring that developers who are not ready to migrate can continue to rely on existing implementations. There will be no major changes to the V1 API and its associated SDK, but the company recommends developers upgrade to V2 for more stable performance and the latest features.
To help developers transition smoothly to API V2, Cohere has also released a new SDK and updated OpenAPI specifications for API endpoints. At the same time, developers can also refer to the detailed chat migration guide on the Cohere platform. Cohere encourages developers to provide feedback and suggestions in its Discord community.
Highlight:
Cohere API V2 is officially released, strengthening the connection with industry standards and making it easier for developers to migrate.
Enforce model version specification to ensure application performance consistency, especially when using Embed models.
A new SDK and detailed migration guide are provided to help developers make a smooth transition.
All in all, the release of Cohere API V2 is a big step forward in the AI market competition. By improving the ease of use and stability of the API, it will attract more developers and increase market share. The editor of Downcodes will continue to pay attention to its subsequent development.