Pots (pi-durable-bot) is an MIT-licensed, self-hosted AI coworker designed as an open alternative to products such as Grok Bot, OpenAI dots, and Claude Tag. It runs on macOS, Linux, or Windows and can use subscription logins, API-based models, OpenAI-compatible services, or local models. Slack, Discord, and Telegram are supported, with other channels intended to be addable through adapters. Teams can run multiple bots with separate roles, personas, and memory, while keeping bot data on their own machines and customizing code, tools, and workflows.
Unlike a conventional chatbot that responds only when tagged, Pots records messages and other activity from its invited channels in a local SQLite inbox, then decides whether to respond or remain silent. Mentions and direct messages wake it immediately; it can also assess untagged messages and run scheduled checks or reminders. It uses a shell, files, internet access, and a screen-controlled computer to carry out tasks, writing and running code as needed. Background helper agents can handle longer work while the main bot stays available. The project emphasizes persistent memory, recovery after interruptions, and avoiding duplicate messages, while noting that Telegram may still resend in some cases. Its claims are backed by an example involving independent research and a Slack response; the title also says six startups used it for a month.
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