OpenAI Introduced Dots Persistent AI Agents
The new agents, built on GPT-6 Astra, provide continuous task automation for Pro and Business users.
Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Artificial Intelligence
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OpenAI has introduced Dots, persistent AI agents capable of operating independently on cloud infrastructure after a user logs off. The agents are now rolling out to ChatGPT Pro and Business Premium subscribers.
Why it matters
The release shifts the capability of AI models from reactive chatbots to persistent digital agents that automate tasks autonomously. This development reflects an industry push toward continuous workflows rather than one-off query sessions.
Dots are built on the GPT-6 Astra model and support integration with more than 4,000 apps. Each agent operates in its own dedicated cloud environment to maintain persistence after a user exits the session.
The players
OpenAI
Developer of the GPT-6 Astra model and provider of the ChatGPT platform for enterprise and personal use.
The details
Dots function by executing tasks within separate cloud environments that remain active once a user has logged off. The system includes an Activity View interface for task management, while actions that affect user-specific accounts trigger an automated review process. For research tasks, agents utilize a read-only mode to prevent unintended modifications to external data sources.
Timeline
September 29, 2026: OpenAI introduced Dots at DevDay.
The Tech Race
The introduction of Dots follows a shift in the AI industry toward persistent automation, moving beyond the conversational baseline established by previous GPT iterations. This places OpenAI in direct competition with other agentic AI platforms currently testing persistent, cloud-based workflows for enterprise automation.
ChatGPT Pro and Business Premium users can now initiate agent setup via the desktop application or browser. By default, data from Business, Enterprise, and Education workspaces is not used to improve models, ensuring privacy as these persistent workflows are integrated into daily tasks.
The takeaway
Dots represent a shift toward AI that functions as a background worker rather than a simple chatbot interface. Users should monitor the upcoming enterprise pilot program for indicators on how these agents integrate into complex professional workflows.
What happens next
OpenAI plans to launch enterprise pilots for specialist Dots, add support for text messaging, and offer options for increasing agent capacity in future updates.
Further reading
For broader context on the evolution of automated agents, visit our Artificial Intelligence section.
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