What Is OpenAI Dots? How the New Always-On ChatGPT AI Agent Works

OpenAI Dots is an always on AI assistant designed to handle tasks in the background, connect with everyday applications, and help users manage their work with less manual effort.

Announced at OpenAI DevDay 2026, Dots introduces a different way to interact with ChatGPT by allowing AI agents to work independently, even when users are offline.

Its features include app integrations, background research, task automation, and personalized assistance.

Key Takeaways

• OpenAI Dots is an always on AI agent that can manage tasks in the background using its own cloud computer.
• Dots connects to more than 4,000 apps and works through ChatGPT, Slack, and Microsoft Teams.
• The service is rolling out to eligible paid ChatGPT plans, with approval controls and privacy safeguards.

What Is OpenAI Dots?

Source: OpenAI

OpenAI Dots is an AI assistant that can independently handle tasks without requiring users to guide every step.

Unlike a conventional chatbot that mainly responds to individual prompts, a Dots agent can continue working in the background, manage several projects, and provide updates when necessary.

Powered by GPT 6 Astra, Dots operates using its own cloud computer and browser.

This allows it to research information, work with connected applications, and complete tasks while users focus on other responsibilities.

How Dots operates

Users can create a Dot, give it a name, connect their preferred applications, and explain their goals.

The agent can then work toward those goals while learning from feedback and previous interactions.

For example, a user managing a product launch can ask Dots to update marketing documents when project requirements change.

Instead of manually revising every document, the user can review the drafts prepared by the agent.

This approach makes Dots more than a question and answer tool. It is designed to become an ongoing assistant that understands projects and helps move them forward.

Key Features of the OpenAI Dots Agent

OpenAI Dots combines several capabilities that allow it to manage more complex tasks.

Its main feature is independent operation, which means users do not need to remain actively involved throughout every stage of a project.

Background work and app integrations

Dots can connect to more than 4,000 applications through OpenAI’s plugin ecosystem.

These integrations allow it to access relevant information and perform approved tasks across different services.

Its main capabilities include:

• Background research: Dots can look for relevant information and identify updates while users are away.
• Project management: It can track ongoing tasks, prepare documents, and respond to changing requirements.
• Personalized assistance: It can learn from user feedback and adapt its work to individual preferences.
• Multiple projects: Users can assign different tasks without managing separate conversations for every activity.

Dots can also contact users when it needs feedback or approval. Users can inspect its cloud computer to see how work is progressing, providing greater visibility into its activities.

For people following developments in AI automation, these capabilities also highlight how AI agents are becoming more involved in everyday digital work.

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How ChatGPT Dots Connects to Other Apps

One of the defining features of ChatGPT Dots is its ability to work across different communication platforms.

Users do not have to rely exclusively on the ChatGPT interface to manage their agents. Dots can be accessed through ChatGPT on desktop, the web, and mobile.

Users can also communicate with their agents through Slack and Microsoft Teams, while text messaging is planned for a future release.

Keeping tasks connected across platforms

These integrations allow users to begin a task in one application and continue managing it through another.

For example, a user can start a research project in ChatGPT and then communicate with the same Dot through Slack.

The agent retains relevant context across supported channels, helping users avoid repeating instructions or providing the same background information.

Voice calls are another available way to interact with Dots. Users can discuss ideas, ask questions, or provide feedback through conversation.

This flexibility is particularly relevant for teams that already use several communication tools.

Instead of switching between different AI assistants, they can access the same agent through supported platforms.

OpenAI Dots Safety, Privacy, and User Controls

Although OpenAI Dots can work independently, users remain responsible for setting boundaries and reviewing important actions.

OpenAI has introduced several safeguards to help users manage how their agents access information and interact with connected applications.

Permissions and approval controls

Users can choose which applications Dots can access and establish rules for specific activities.

Some actions can proceed independently, while others require approval. Sensitive activities, such as changing passwords, remain under the user’s control.

Dots also use read only access for proactive research when users are not actively interacting with them.

This allows agents to find useful information without sending messages or changing connected application content during that process.

Users can monitor ongoing activities through Activity View, review progress, and redirect their agents when necessary.

OpenAI also uses automated checks to identify potentially harmful actions. However, Dots can still make mistakes or misunderstand instructions.

Reviewing important documents, financial information, and other consequential work remains essential.

These safeguards help users manage the risks associated with allowing AI agents to work independently.

OpenAI Dots Availability and How to Get Started

OpenAI Dots is rolling out to eligible ChatGPT users, with access depending on their subscription and location.

The initial rollout includes Pro and Business Premium plans, while Enterprise, Edu, and Healthcare users can access a beta when their workspace administrators enable it.

How to start using ChatGPT Dots

Getting started involves a few simple steps:

1. Open ChatGPT on your desktop app or desktop browser.
2. Create your first Dot and give it a name.
3. Connect the applications you want it to use.
4. Set your preferences and explain the tasks you want it to handle.
5. Monitor its progress and provide feedback when needed.

The first Dot is included in eligible Pro and Business Premium subscriptions at no additional cost.

Users also receive an allowance for more intensive tasks, although these activities remain subject to applicable usage limits.

OpenAI plans to expand access and introduce more specialist Dots for businesses.

These specialized agents are designed to handle specific responsibilities, such as invoice processing, customer support, and IT operations.

Conclusion

OpenAI Dots introduces a different approach to AI assistance by allowing ChatGPT agents to work continuously, manage multiple projects, and connect with thousands of applications.

Its background research, personalized assistance, and approval controls could make it useful for individuals and businesses handling complex tasks.

However, users should still review important results and manage permissions carefully.

As AI agents become more integrated into everyday work, understanding their capabilities and limitations will become increasingly important.

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FAQ

What is OpenAI Dots?

OpenAI Dots is an always on AI assistant that can perform tasks in the background, connect to applications, and help users manage ongoing projects through ChatGPT.

Is OpenAI Dots free to use?

Dots is initially available through eligible paid ChatGPT subscriptions, including Pro and Business Premium. Enterprise, Edu, and Healthcare users can access the beta when enabled by their administrators.

How many apps can OpenAI Dots connect to?

OpenAI Dots can connect to more than 4,000 applications through its plugin ecosystem, allowing it to work with different services according to the permissions granted by users.

Can OpenAI Dots work without user supervision?

Yes. Dots can perform background research and manage tasks independently. However, users can set approval requirements, monitor progress, and intervene when necessary.

How is OpenAI Dots different from regular ChatGPT?

Regular ChatGPT primarily responds to user prompts, while Dots can continue working on projects in the background, use connected applications, and provide updates without requiring constant instructions.

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