# Dots Guide

> Independent guide to OpenAI dots, the always-on AI agents launched at DevDay 2026: what they are, pricing, availability, how to get started, and the latest news.

Dots Guide is an independent, unofficial resource. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by OpenAI. “dots”, “ChatGPT” and “OpenAI” are trademarks of OpenAI.
Last updated: 2026-09-29

## Key facts
- What are dots? Always-on AI agents from OpenAI that work on your behalf in the background, announced at DevDay on September 29, 2026.
- Which model powers dots? GPT-6 Astra.
- Where do dots run? Each dot has its own cloud computer and browser, separate from your device unless you connect it.
- How do you reach a dot? Chat or voice call in ChatGPT (desktop, web, mobile), Slack and Microsoft Teams. Texting is coming soon.
- What can dots connect to? More than 4,000 apps through the ChatGPT plugin ecosystem.
- Who can use dots? ChatGPT Pro and Business Premium users in eligible markets. Enterprise, Edu and Healthcare can try a beta if their admin enables it.
- How much do dots cost? Your first dot is included with Pro or Business Premium at no extra cost. Additional dots are planned but not yet available.

## Guides
- [What are OpenAI dots?](https://dotsguide.com/what-are-dots): how dots work, capabilities, safety, specialist dots
- [Pricing and availability](https://dotsguide.com/pricing): plans, cost, usage limits
- [Get started](https://dotsguide.com/get-started): step-by-step setup, rules and approvals
- [FAQ](https://dotsguide.com/faq)

## News
- [OpenAI DevDay 2026 sessions: every breakout talk by stage](https://dotsguide.com/news/devday-2026-sessions) (2026-09-29): DevDay 2026 breakout sessions across Festival Pavilion, Cowell Theater, Mezzanine Stage and Outdoor Stage, from Claw Labs and Codex Game Studio to agentic architectures and the Agents API.
- [OpenAI launches dots: always-on AI agents powered by GPT-6 Astra](https://dotsguide.com/news/openai-launches-dots) (2026-09-29): OpenAI introduced dots at DevDay 2026: always-on agents with their own cloud computer, 4,000+ app connections, Slack and Teams access, and a free first dot on Pro and Business Premium.
- [OpenAI DevDay 2026 recap: every announcement, from dots to GPT-6.1 Sol](https://dotsguide.com/news/devday-2026-recap) (2026-09-29): Everything OpenAI announced at DevDay 2026: dots, GPT-6.1 Sol, Ultrafast, Codex in the cloud, Agents API computer use, plugin extensions, MCP events, ChatGPT Space, Pages, Pro 500 and more.

## FAQ
### What are OpenAI dots?
Dots are always-on AI agents from OpenAI, launched at DevDay on September 29, 2026. A dot learns your goals and preferences, works on several projects in the background, and brings back finished work for your review.

### What model do dots use?
Dots are powered by GPT-6 Astra.

### How much do dots cost?
Your first dot is included with ChatGPT Pro or Business Premium at no extra cost, along with an allowance for deeper work. OpenAI says you will be able to add more dots and scale their speed or monthly workload in the future.

### Who can use dots right now?
Dots are rolling out to ChatGPT Pro and Business Premium users in eligible markets. Enterprise, Edu and Healthcare workspaces can try a beta if an admin turns it on; it is off by default.

### Are dots available on ChatGPT Plus or the free plan?
Not at launch. OpenAI says it plans to expand dots to more users soon.

### How do I create my first dot?
Create it in the ChatGPT desktop app or in a desktop browser, give it a name, connect your apps and let it introduce itself. After setup you can also message it from the ChatGPT mobile app.

### Can I talk to my dot in Slack or Teams?
Yes. You can message your dot in Slack and Microsoft Teams, chat or call it in ChatGPT, and texting is coming soon. Context carries across all channels.

### Do conversations with my dot use up my ChatGPT limits?
No. Conversations with your dot do not count toward ChatGPT usage limits. Tasks your dot starts in Codex or ChatGPT Work do count as usual.

### Can a dot act without my permission?
Dots follow built-in rules for when to act and when to ask. You can add Custom Rules to allow, require approval for, or block actions. Background proactive research uses read-only tools, and some sensitive tasks, like changing a password, always stay with you.

### Is there a dots API for developers?
OpenAI has not announced a dedicated dots API. Developers can reach dots through ChatGPT plugins, which now support plugin extensions and MCP events, and can build similar agents with the Agents API.

### What are specialist dots?
Specialist dots are organization-managed agents with their own identity, credentials and system access for defined roles such as procurement or invoice processing. They start as focused enterprise pilots.

### Is Dots Guide run by OpenAI?
No. Dots Guide is an independent, unofficial resource and is not affiliated with OpenAI.

## Primary sources
- https://openai.com/index/introducing-dots/
- https://openai.com/index/devday-2026-recap/