OpenDots

OpenDots is an open-source template for always-on AI coworkers that move between text, calls, and Slack.

OpenDots is an open-source template for always-on AI coworkers that handle tasks across text, calls, and Slack. Each coworker, called a Dot, operates with its own role, permissions, and isolated computer running a browser, files, and shell. Users interact through chat, voice calls, or Slack connections, reviewing work via approval cards before documents are saved into searchable spaces. Built with CopilotKit and the AG-UI protocol, the system works with OpenAI-compatible providers. It is designed for developers who want to self-host and customize agentic workflows with granular access controls and durable conversation histories.

OpenDots at a glance

Best for: Software engineer
Runs on: Web, Slack, self-hosted, open source
Pricing: Developer Free; Pro; Team; Enterprise
Released: September 2026
Category: AI agent tool
Website: copilotkit.ai/opendots

Key features

Always-on AI coworkers with individual roles and permissions
Isolated computer environments with persistent browser and files
Realtime voice calls and managed Slack connections
Human-in-the-loop review cards for draft approvals
Searchable document spaces with Markdown source mode
Model streaming and server-tool execution
Container supervisor for browser, files, and shell

Use it for

Researching topics and drafting documents
Managing recurring tasks server-side with pause and retry
Collaborating with AI agents via text, calls, and Slack
Reviewing and approving agent-generated work before saving

Companions

Tools that articles about OpenDots recommend using with it, each with its job.

Context7 — Current, version-specific docs for accurate suggestions.
GitHub MCP Server — Issues, pull requests and CI runs inside Copilot chat.
Playwright MCP — End-to-end testing from Copilot agent mode.
Firecrawl — Turns reference pages into clean Markdown for the agent.
MCP Toolbox for Databases — Connects Copilot to Postgres for schema and SQL work.
Sentry — Sentry MCP brings root-cause analysis into the editor.

Alternatives to OpenDots

CopilotKit — Connects your application to AI agents with generative UI and human approvals.
GitHub Copilot — Built into GitHub, with Claude and Codex agents on the same plan
CodePilot — Consolidates multiple AI agents and local model connections in one workspace.
OpenCode — Works with 75+ model providers, local models, and existing subscriptions
Composio — Equips AI agents with tools, managed user auth, and sandboxes across 1,500+ apps
Squad — Coordinate parallel execution and repetitive coding tasks while keeping human oversight.
Alook — Connects existing local coding agents to team communication channels.
Agent Squad — Runs multi-agent orchestration in Python, TypeScript, and locally on Apple devices.
OpenViking — Unifies agent memory, knowledge RAG, and skills into a single directory structure.
OpenRig — Coordinate multiple AI coding agents across long-term projects.
A.N.K.I.T.A — Integrates desktop apps, terminal CLI, and floating companion features.
Copilot for Xcode — Integrates directly into Xcode to provide intelligent completions, chat, and agent mode.

All OpenDots alternatives