OpenAI is reportedly developing a new lineup of artificial intelligence agents designed for expert-level tasks, with pricing potentially reaching up to $20,000 per month.
Highlights
Unlike existing AI models available through subscription plans like ChatGPT Plus and enterprise packages, these AI agents are expected to function as standalone services catering primarily to businesses and professional users.
According to The Information, OpenAI is working on at least three AI agents, each specialized for different domains.
Specialized AI Agents and Expected Pricing
The AI agents under development are reportedly designed to operate autonomously, performing complex tasks with minimal human intervention.
- Knowledge Worker AI – Estimated at $2,000 per month, this AI is designed for roles requiring critical thinking and strategic planning, similar to those of management consultants and financial analysts.
- Software Developer AI – Expected to cost $10,000 per month, this AI would handle tasks such as coding, debugging, and software deployment, offering capabilities beyond current AI-powered coding tools.
- PhD-Level Research AI – The most advanced and expensive, this agent is anticipated to cost $20,000 per month and would be capable of conducting deep analysis, running simulations, and researching complex topics.
Autonomous AI Agents vs. Traditional AI Tools
Unlike conventional chatbots, which require user input for responses, OpenAI’s AI agents are expected to function with greater autonomy. These systems could continuously work on assigned tasks, adapt based on new information, and improve over time.
If realized, this shift would mark a significant evolution from conversational AI models like ChatGPT toward AI-powered automation in specialized industries.
Market Landscape and Competitive Positioning
OpenAI’s move into high-cost, enterprise-focused AI tools comes amid increasing competition in the AI sector. Competitor offerings include:
- Cognition Labs’ Devin AI – A software development AI agent priced at $500 per month, significantly lower than OpenAI’s expected $10,000 pricing for its software-focused AI.
- Google Gemini Deep Research – A research-focused AI available as part of Google’s Gemini Advanced subscription for Rs. 1,950 ($23) per month, considerably less than OpenAI’s anticipated $20,000 price point.
| Offering | Pricing (per month) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| OpenAI Knowledge Worker AI | $2,000 | Expert-level strategic planning, financial analysis, and autonomous decision-making. |
| OpenAI Software Developer AI | $10,000 | Advanced coding, debugging, and software deployment with high automation. |
| OpenAI PhD-Level Research AI | $20,000 | Deep research, complex simulations, and expert analysis with minimal human intervention. |
| Cognition Labs’ Devin AI | $500 | Basic AI assistance for software development with limited automation capabilities. |
| Google Gemini Deep Research | Rs. 1,950 (~$23) | Research-oriented AI tool included in Gemini Advanced, focusing on data analysis and summaries. |
The higher pricing suggests that OpenAI is positioning its AI agents as enterprise solutions aimed at large organizations rather than individual users.
Strategic Partnerships and Financial Considerations
Reports indicate that OpenAI’s push into high-end AI services aligns with its financial strategy, following significant operational costs and reported losses of approximately $5 billion last year.
In response, OpenAI has secured backing from SoftBank, which has committed $3 billion to its AI agent products in 2025.
OpenAI and SoftBank have announced a joint venture, SB OpenAI Japan, to provide AI services to Japanese enterprises, further expanding the company’s reach into enterprise AI solutions.
The Future of AI in Enterprise Workflows
While OpenAI has not officially confirmed the details or pricing of these AI agents, the reported developments indicate a shift toward AI systems capable of handling expert-level tasks autonomously.
If these AI agents deliver on their intended functionality, they could redefine how businesses leverage artificial intelligence for high-value operations, potentially streamlining workflows and increasing efficiency across industries.
