In a live stream event on Tuesday, OpenAI unveiled multiple initiatives aimed at developers. The San Francisco-based AI leader introduced a new application programming interface (API) along with an open-source software development kit (SDK) designed to facilitate the creation of artificial intelligence (AI) agents and the management of multi-agent workflows. Additionally, the company showcased three new tools that will be integrated into the upcoming Responses API, enabling developers to develop software and applications with enhanced agent capabilities.
The announcements were highlighted in a video shared on X (formerly Twitter) through OpenAI Developers’ official account. Besides the API and SDK, the firm presented three new tools: web search, file search, and computer use, all accessible through the new Responses API.
The web search tool empowers developers to equip their AI agents with real-time web lookup capabilities, leveraging the same model that powers OpenAI’s web search features. Currently, this tool is being offered in a preview version. The file search function enables the retrieval of specific information from extensive documents, incorporating query optimization and custom re-ranking features.
On the other hand, the computer use tool is driven by the same model utilized by OpenAI’s Operator agent. This tool allows developers to create agents that can access and complete tasks on computers and within graphical user interfaces (GUIs). It is particularly useful for quality assurance testing and data entry tasks. Developers in usage tiers three to five can access this tool as part of a research preview.
The Responses API, which is set to replace the current Chat Completions and Assistant API, integrates all existing functionalities while adding new tool-use capabilities. OpenAI asserts that this enhancement will allow developers to build more advanced AI agents seamlessly.
According to OpenAI, transitioning to the Responses API from Chat Completions and Assistant is expected to be smooth, mitigating the risk of glitches or data loss for developers. The company has announced plans to retire the Assistant API, while maintaining the Chat Completions option for those preferring to forgo agent-centric functionalities.
Lastly, the Agents SDK is engineered to facilitate the creation and management of multi-agent workflows. This SDK enhances the previous Swarm system, allowing developers to link several agents to accomplish more intricate tasks. It includes various components such as Agents (AI models equipped with specific instructions and tools), Handoffs (which enable agents to delegate tasks), and Guardrails (which validate inputs provided to agents).
