feat: Support for free OpenRouter's DeepSeek R1-0528 Model

[cvjxendra]

"I'd like Task-Master AI to support the OpenRouter endpoint openrouter/deepseek/deepseek-r1-0528:free for research-related tasks."

Motivation

• The free deepseek-r1-0528 model is a high-performing, free-to-use LLM via OpenRouter, ideal for users who need research capabilities without relying on expensive proprietary models (e.g., GPT-4).

• Currently, Task-Master may lack flexibility to accepts free models in model selection, limiting cost efficiency and experimentation.

Proposed Solution

• Feature: Add support for the syntax (:free) as in "deepseek/deepseek-r1-0528:free" model via OpenRouter’s API when users specify research-oriented tasks.

• Technologies:

  • OpenRouter API (already supported if Task-Master uses generic HTTP LLM calls). Minimal changes to model configuration logic (e.g., extend the model provider whitelist).

• Workflow Fit:

  • Seamlessly integrates with existing research command flows (e.g., task-master research "query" --model deepseek-r1).

High-Level Workflow

1. Add Model to Whitelist: Extend the model provider list to include deepseek-r1-0528 under OpenRouter’s free tier and to accept the :free syntax.
2. Update Research Command: Modify the research task handler to route requests to OpenRouter when this model is selected.

Key Elements

• Technical: New model alias in configuration (e.g., deepseek-r1 → openrouter/deepseek/deepseek-r1-0528:free).
• Documentation update for supported models.
• UX: Clear feedback when the model is selected (e.g., Using DeepSeek R1 via OpenRouter (free tier)).

Implementation Considerations

• Dependencies: OpenRouter API stability and free-tier availability.
• Backward Compatibility: No breaking changes; existing model defaults remain untouched.
• Performance: Lightweight addition; OpenRouter handles scaling.

[ben-vargas]

Note the following limitation on use of "free" openrouter models...

OpenRouter Docs: Limits

There are a few rate limits that apply to certain types of requests, regardless of account status:

Free usage limits: If you’re using a free model variant (with an ID ending in :free), you can make up to 20 requests per minute. The following per-day limits apply: If you have purchased less than 10 credits, you’re limited to 50 :free model requests per day.

If you purchase at least 10 credits, your daily limit is increased to 1000 :free model requests per day.

DDoS protection: Cloudflare’s DDoS protection will block requests that dramatically exceed reasonable usage. If your account has a negative credit balance, you may see 402 errors, including for free models. Adding credits to put your balance above zero allows you to use those models again.