OpenAI reportedly plans to launch specialized AI “agents” that could cost as much as $20,000 per month. According to The Information, these AI agents will handle complex, high-value tasks like software development, and advanced research.
If the reports turn out true, the agents are targeted at businesses that want to scale up efficiency to a whole new level.
What Are OpenAI’s AI Agents?
AI agents are automated tools designed to complete specific tasks with little human input. Many AI models currently in use require prompting and human oversight, but these AI agents were designed to function independently. They are speculated to take over complete workflows.
Here are their rumored offerings:
- High-Income Knowledge Worker Agent ($2,000/month): Automates research, summarization and data analysis for professionals in complex disciplines. Finance, consulting, and law professionals make great targets
- Software Developer Agent ($10,000/month): Targeted at programmers and will assist them by automating software development and debugging.
Also read: Will AI Replace Programmers?
- PhD-Level Research Agent ($20,000/month): This is OpenAI’s priciest option. Designed to support academic and corporate research. Also, it may act as an assistant for scientific breakthroughs.
Also read: OpenAI Launches ChatGPT Deep Research
Why Is OpenAI Introducing These AI Agents?
The AI industry has one primary characteristic, speedy innovation. With rapid improvements sprouting up every now and then, like DeepSeek’s R1 model, OpenAI could be in a rush to outpace the competition.
Additionally, OpenAI has been reported as expensive to run. In fact, according to a source, OpenAI is still bleeding money despite the $200 ChatGPT Pro subscription. These new AI agents could be a strategy to boost revenue. Reports say OpenAI lost around $5 billion last year due to high operational and infrastructure costs.
Thankfully, investors are showing strong interest in the company. SoftBank, a major OpenAI backer, has reportedly committed $3 billion to these agentic tools in 2025 alone.
Who Are These AI Agents For?
OpenAI has not officially confirmed details about these agents. However, they seem aimed at businesses and professionals rather than everyday users. Likely customers include:
- Companies looking for automation in research, sales, and software development
- Corporations investing in AI assisted workflows
- Startups and tech firms wanting to integrate advanced AI
