OpenAI launches Dots to automate tasks across 4,000 apps

The launch of Dots

OpenAI introduced Dots during its DevDay conference in San Francisco on September 29, 2026. This new AI assistant is designed to function as a persistent tool that carries out tasks autonomously across a wide range of connected applications. It represents a major step in the company's strategy toward autonomous artificial intelligence.

The system is powered by the GPT-6 Astra model, which is closely related to the updated GPT-6.1 Sol model also presented at the event. Unlike standard chatbots, Dots is built to interact with the web and a dedicated cloud computer to perform actions rather than just generating text.

The tool is intended to compete with other major AI players, such as Meta. By offering a system that can actually do work across different platforms, OpenAI aims to capture the enterprise market. The assistant can be accessed via text, voice calls, and integrations with platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams.

How the technology works

Dots functions by interacting with computer interfaces and retrieving data from various linked applications. It can perform a variety of complex actions, including conducting research, drafting documents, and even developing software. The system is designed to learn and adapt to the specific preferences of its users as it operates over time.

To ensure reliability and safety, OpenAI has integrated several layers of protection into the tool. These include pre-defined guidelines, customizable rules for blocking or requiring approval for specific actions, and automated checks. These features are meant to give organizations more control over what the autonomous agent can do on their behalf.

While users currently only have access to a single Dot, OpenAI plans to introduce multiple agents in the future. These agents will be able to work together within a dedicated workspace called ChatGPT Space. This collaborative environment is designed to handle more sophisticated, multi-layered business processes.

Enterprise use and capabilities

OpenAI is primarily targeting businesses with this release, testing specialized versions of the tool for corporate environments. Internal engineers at OpenAI are already utilizing Dots to identify and resolve dozens of software vulnerabilities every day. This demonstrates the tool's ability to handle high-level technical tasks in a production setting.

For general business users, Dots can handle everyday tasks such as summarizing emails and managing calendar appointments. It can also identify scheduling conflicts and draft response emails that require human approval before being sent. These capabilities are intended to streamline administrative overhead for teams.

Alexander Embiricos, who leads the enterprise product and Dots agent tool at OpenAI, noted that the technology gives companies the choice to outsource tasks or expand their goals. However, he observed that most companies have not yet begun to automate their work tasks using these types of systems.

Current limitations and rollout

Despite its capabilities, Dots still faces hurdles with complex transactions that require specific user interactions. For example, the assistant has struggled to book restaurant reservations or purchase train tickets. These failures are often caused by obstacles like login screens, specific seat selections, payment portals, or the need for phone calls.

The rollout began on September 29, 2026, for users with specific paid tiers, including ChatGPT Pro, Business Premium, and Enterprise. Users on these plans can interact with Dots without these conversations counting against their regular usage limits. However, the service is currently not available to users located in the European Union.

In some regions, such as South Korea, the ChatGPT Pro subscription required for access starts at 100 US dollars per month. While the tool is still maturing, it has already been ranked as a leading assistant in the Assistant Benchmark, alongside other systems like Town and Pally.

Future outlook and regulations

As companies begin to adopt autonomous systems like Dots, they will face new challenges regarding risk assessment and documentation. The automation of processes by AI agents requires a clear understanding of how to monitor these systems for accuracy and compliance. This is particularly relevant for industries with strict regulatory requirements.

The rise of these agents also brings the EU AI Act into focus for many developers and businesses. This regulation outlines specific deadlines, duties, and risk classes for artificial intelligence systems. Organizations must navigate these legal frameworks as they integrate more autonomous tools into their daily workflows.

OpenAI continues to expand its reach, with ChatGPT reporting over 1.2 billion weekly users as of late 2026. The company is also introducing new pricing tiers, including a 500-dollar premium subscription for higher capacity. As Dots evolves, the focus will likely shift toward overcoming the remaining hurdles in complex transaction handling.

Try it

Check your current ChatGPT subscription status to see if you have access to the Dots assistant for enterprise tasks.

Watch

How OpenAI will solve the 'login wall' and payment hurdles for complex transactions.

The official release date for Dots in the European Union.

How many companies actually move from testing Dots to full task automation.