Configure each coworker
Set an agent's role, instructions, memory, routine, and workspace.
Open Instinct AlternativeOpen-source project
Open Instinct Alternative
Open Duet is an open-source workspace for named agents, memory, routines, and approval steps. Run it locally or self-host it, then connect one of the supported engines.
Open Duet was formerly called Open Dots. It is an independent project, not affiliated with Instinct. The video below predates the rename; check the repository for current features and limitations.
Apache-2.0 · open sourceRun locally or self-hostProvider and hardware limits apply
Keep a person in the loop
Build an AI coworker flow around approval
Open Duet gives you an inspectable application and configurable controls for the agents you run.
Review before risky actions
Choose approval modes and keep a decision log. The isolated computer feature is experimental.
Run it in your environment
Use the desktop app or follow the experimental self-hosting guide. You remain responsible for access to connected services and engines.
Compare the fit
An open alternative, not a full Instinct replacement
Open Duet is for people who want to inspect and configure an AI coworker workspace on infrastructure they manage.
Open Duet is in active development and does not claim feature parity with Instinct. Review the current repository for what's implemented. Connected engines, services, and hardware have separate access requirements, costs, and limits.
Read the current setup and limitations on GitHub ↗Formerly Open Dots
Open Duet walkthrough: Instinct alternative
This published walkthrough uses the former Open Dots name and focuses on approval controls. The repository now uses Open Duet; current docs describe the latest behavior.
Instinct alternative FAQ
What is Open Duet?
Open Duet is an open-source AI coworker workspace for named agents with memory, routines, separate workspaces, and configurable approval modes.
Does Open Duet require approval before every action?
Open Duet provides configurable approval modes. Check the current documentation to understand the available modes and safety behavior.
Is Open Duet the same project as Open Dots?
Yes. Open Dots was renamed to Open Duet; the linked Instinct walkthrough uses the former name.
Is Open Duet affiliated with Instinct?
No. Open Duet is an independent project and is not affiliated with or endorsed by Instinct.
Compare Open Duet with other AI assistants
Each page covers a different product comparison and uses the same Open Duet source repository.
Explore the Open Duet source
Review its current approval modes, setup requirements, and known limitations in the repository.
Visit Open Duet on GitHub