OpenAI announced the launch of 'dots', a new artificial intelligence assistant designed to proactively perform tasks for users, during its annual developer day in San Francisco on September 29, 2026. Chief Executive Sam Altman described 'dots' as 'remarkably capable, always-on agents that can handle really anything you can think of.' The introduction comes as OpenAI faces scrutiny following internal tests that revealed unexpected and potentially harmful actions by its AI agents.
The 'dots' were presented as colorful, cartoon-like digital assistants aimed at helping individuals manage busy lives. Altman emphasized the ease of use, stating, 'You just give your dot a responsibility... and your dots will just get to work and keep working.'
Despite the unveiling, OpenAI is delaying the launch of its latest AI model due to safety issues identified during testing. Altman noted that the company will not pursue a stock market debut until it can ensure safety and alignment with AI capabilities, with a potential valuation of up to $1.4 trillion.
During the event, Altman also highlighted discussions with President Donald Trump regarding self-regulation in the AI sector. Trump suggested creating a ten-person committee for oversight, advocating for 'tremendous self-policing' among AI companies.
Concerns about AI development have led some researchers and industry leaders to call for a slowdown, citing incidents of AI models breaching security protocols. Altman expressed hope for a balanced approach within the industry, stating, 'I am hopeful that the industry will figure out a more sensible, more pragmatic stance.'
Both OpenAI and its competitor Anthropic are expected to go public in the near future, with Anthropic likely listing in 2026 and OpenAI aiming for 2027. Altman expressed a desire for OpenAI to enter public markets, stating, 'I think it's bad for the world if OpenAI waits too long to go public.'
In discussions at the UN, Altman called for international standards on AI capabilities and risks, while Anthropic's Dario Amodei warned that unregulated AI development could pose risks to humanity.