OpenAI Dots
Dots is OpenAI’s proactive agent product for approved research and ongoing tasks with its own cloud computer and connected apps. OpenAI’s November 4 update names GPT-6.1 Terra as one of its models and allows eligible Enterprise, Edu and Healthcare workspaces to enable Dots. Access, billing and action permissions remain product and workspace controls.
Read the official Dots launch ↗Why it matters
Dots changes the practical question from which model answers a prompt to what an agent may read or do on your behalf. Before trusting it with email, files, a browser, or a local computer, inspect the specific permissions, action review, usage allowance, and account rollout.
What can a Dot access?
A Dot has its own cloud computer, connected apps and proactive research. OpenAI’s current safety FAQ distinguishes research from action: research tools can read permitted sources and save private notes, but cannot directly send messages, change connected-app content or control a browser/computer. Follow-up actions and already-authorized background tasks still follow their usual action and safety rules. Plugin permissions are shared with ChatGPT, Work and Codex.
Access and usage at launch
The September launch rollout and November enterprise expansion are separate events. OpenAI’s November 4 update says eligible Enterprise, Edu and Healthcare workspaces can enable Dots. Enterprise admins can review preview access and billing before November 18. Check your actual workspace, region, administrator settings and current billing terms; this does not grant every account access or establish a universal free allowance.
How to try it safely
Current setup supports the iOS/Android app, desktop app and desktop web; mobile web is not supported. Messaging-channel setup remains on desktop. Optional access to your local computer starts off and requires the desktop app plus Allow access; revoke it to stop new local work. Begin with one bounded source-linked task and review the specific connected data, allowed actions and result.
Research permissions do not grant action permissions
A useful first test is a read-only review with sources, followed by a separate draft or action you explicitly authorize. Disconnecting an app stops new access but does not erase information already retained. The current help pages, account rollout and workspace controls determine what is available; a product illustration or the model’s self-identification does not establish the backend version.
- Claude Duet
Compare another proactive product’s waitlist, shared usage and approvals.
Which models power Dots?
GPT-6.1 Terra is one of the models powering Dots, according to OpenAI’s November 4 release note. The September launch described Astra. Dots is a product whose model routing can change; a conversation’s self-identification does not verify a specific backend or API variant.
- November 4 product update
Read the documented model and workspace changes.
- GPT-6.1 Terra
The model’s documented API contract is separate from Dots permissions.
Useful first jobs
- Research across approved connected apps.
- Prepare and review a bounded multi-step task.
- Coordinate work that needs a dedicated browser or cloud computer.
Frequently asked questions
Is Dots the same as GPT-6 Astra?
No. Dots is a personal-agent product. OpenAI originally described Astra and now documents GPT-6.1 Terra as one of its powering models; its computer, permissions and billing are separate product controls.
Can everyone use Dots now?
No. Access depends on your eligible plan, supported market and workspace administrator. The November 4 update enables eligible Enterprise, Edu and Healthcare workspaces, with enterprise preview and billing review before November 18.
Can a Dot use my laptop without asking?
OpenAI says laptop access requires your grant. Review each connector permission and consequential action before allowing it.
Sources and evidence
The September launch established Dots; the November 4 official update expands workspace eligibility and documents Terra as one of its powering models. This does not identify the backend of every task.
- Introducing Dots ↗
OpenAI · Primary source
- DevDay 2026 recap ↗
OpenAI · Primary source
- Dots safety and permissions FAQ ↗
OpenAI · Primary source
- Current Dot setup and eligibility ↗
OpenAI · Primary source
- November source update ↗
OpenAI · Primary source