Meta, OpenAI and Anthropic are taking different approaches to a similar idea: an AI assistant that helps get real work done.
Meta introduced Muse in September 2026 as an agent designed to help with everyday tasks and longer-term plans.
OpenAI announced Dots on September 29, 2026. These always-on agents are designed to work toward goals, learn from feedback and carry context between supported workspaces.
Anthropic introduced Claude Duet on October 21, 2026, as a proactive AI agent for professionals and small-business owners.
– Meta Muse: personal goals, everyday tasks and assistance that fits into daily life. – OpenAI Dots: ongoing projects and work across connected apps. – Claude Duet: proactive updates and productivity support for professionals.
All three are designed to do more than generate a one-time response. Muse can continue supported tasks in the background, Dots can pursue goals and conduct proactive research, and Duet can keep working when users step away.
An AI agent becomes more useful when it can work with the tools already holding your information. Dots highlights connections across a broad app ecosystem, Muse is designed around personal tasks and supported services, and Duet draws on Claude’s connected apps and tools.
These agents may interact with connected apps or handle sensitive information, so safeguards matter as much as convenience. Meta describes permission controls and an activity trail for Muse. OpenAI offers rules and approval checks for Dots, while Claude Duet is designed to seek approval for sensitive actions.
The Best Fit Depends On Your Workflow – Choose Muse to explore a personal agent focused on everyday goals. – Explore Dots if you want an agent that follows ongoing work across connected apps. – Watch Claude Duet if proactive briefings and professional productivity are your priorities.
The next phase of AI will not be judged only by how well a chatbot responds. It will also depend on whether an agent can complete useful tasks reliably, work with the right apps and keep users in control.