What are OpenAI dots, and what are the alternatives?

OpenAI launched dots on September 29, 2026 as persistent agents powered by GPT-6 Astra that can work across connected apps and dedicated cloud computers on tasks ranging from research and proposals to software development, while Factory positions itself as a model-agnostic alternative focused on configurable engineering workflows. Dots can conduct read-only proactive research to identify potential work, retain context across projects, and operate under user-defined application permissions, whereas Factory uses explicit automation triggers, persistent Droid Computers, structured Missions for approved engineering plans, and enterprise controls over models and tools. Factory also supports bring-your-own machines and custom model providers through its CLI and desktop products, while OpenAI’s launch materials do not describe a bring-your-own-model option for dots. Pricing differs through included dot access in eligible OpenAI plans with separate task limits, compared with Factory’s tiered subscriptions, rolling usage caps, prepaid extra usage, and organizational plans. Both platforms emphasize oversight, but dots rely on configurable action rules, activity visibility, and approval mechanisms, while Factory distinguishes between organizational restrictions, session settings, and separate permissions for preparing, reviewing, merging, or deploying code.

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