OpenAI launches Dots for persistent background work

OpenAI launched Dots, always-on agents designed to keep working on ongoing responsibilities in the background. The product is rolling out to Pro and Business Premium users in eligible markets. Enterprise users, including Edu and Healthcare workspaces, can try a beta after an administrator enables it.

OpenAI says a Dot can run one project while keeping several others moving, take on new tasks without separate chat threads and send progress updates or questions when it needs a decision. That persistent model moves the interaction beyond turn-by-turn assistance. The capability and productivity benefits, however, are company claims; no independent performance or deployment data was available in the opened sources.

Each Dot runs on GPT-6 Astra and has a dedicated cloud computer and browser, according to OpenAI. The company says Dots can connect to more than 4,000 apps through its plugin ecosystem, carrying context across ChatGPT, Slack and Microsoft Teams. Users can message or call a Dot through ChatGPT on desktop, web and mobile; texting is planned for later.

OpenAI calls a Dot’s inactive background activity “proactive research.” In that mode, the company says, a Dot can use connected apps only through read-only tools. Those tools cannot send messages, change app content or control a browser or computer. Users choose which apps a Dot can access and can create rules that allow, block or require approval for specified actions. OpenAI says an automated review system checks consequential actions, while sensitive steps such as changing a password remain with the user.

A first Dot is included with Pro or Business Premium at no extra cost. OpenAI says conversations with a Dot do not count toward ChatGPT usage limits. Tasks the Dot starts or manages in Codex or ChatGPT Work, however, count against those products’ normal limits. The company has not disclosed the size of the launch allowance for deeper work or future pricing for additional Dots.

Users start with one primary Dot. OpenAI also previewed specialist Dots for organizations with separate identities, access controls, IT-provisioned hardware and deeper systems integrations. The company said it is beginning with focused enterprise pilots and is working with Microsoft on an Agent 365 integration.