OpenAI
OpenAI Agents API
Managed API that runs agents on OpenAI's infrastructure using the same harness as Codex, with tools, MCP connections and subagents. Public beta since September 10, 2026.
Multi-agent patterns
Handoffs
One agent passes the conversation to another agent, which takes over.
Not shown in the docs.
Subagents / agents as tools
A main agent calls other agents like tools and gets their result back, each with its own context.
How OpenAI Agents API does itGraph or workflow
You define steps and edges (or a workflow), and the framework runs agents and functions through them.
Not shown in the docs.
Group chat / crew
Several agents with roles work together on a task, coordinated by a manager or a selection rule.
Not shown in the docs.
Human in the loop
The run pauses for a person to approve, edit or answer before it continues.
Not shown in the docs.
Protocols and hosting
Questions
Does OpenAI Agents API support MCP?
Yes. OpenAI Agents API's documentation shows agents using tools from MCP servers.
Does OpenAI Agents API support the A2A protocol?
Its documentation does not cover A2A as of 2026-10-09.
What multi-agent patterns does OpenAI Agents API support?
The docs show: subagents / agents as tools.
Links
Alternatives in the same languages
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Reviewed Oct 9, 2026.