---
summary: "Use OpenAI via API keys or Codex subscription in OpenClaw"
read_when:
- You want to use OpenAI models in OpenClaw
- You want Codex subscription auth instead of API keys
- You want Astra async tools, mid-turn steering, or cached reasoning changes
- You need stricter GPT-5 agent execution behavior
title: "OpenAI"
---
OpenClaw uses one provider id, `openai`, for both direct API-key auth and
ChatGPT/Codex subscription auth. `openai/*` is the canonical model route.
For embedded agent turns with runtime policy unset or `auto`, OpenAI's route
facts decide whether OpenClaw may select the bundled Codex app-server runtime
implicitly. The `openai/*` prefix alone does not select a runtime.
- **Agent models** - `openai/*` through the runtime selected by explicit
`agentRuntime` config or OpenAI's implicit route policy. Sign in with Codex
auth for ChatGPT/Codex subscription use, or configure an API-key auth
profile when you want key-based billing.
- **Non-agent OpenAI APIs** - direct OpenAI Platform access, billed per use,
through `OPENAI_API_KEY` or an `openai` API-key auth profile.
- **Legacy config** - `codex/*` and `openai-codex/*` refs are repaired to
`openai/*` plus model-scoped `agentRuntime.id: "codex"` by
`openclaw doctor --fix`.
OpenAI explicitly supports subscription OAuth usage in external tools and
workflows like OpenClaw.
## Usage and cost tracking
OpenClaw keeps subscription quota and Platform API billing distinct:
- ChatGPT/Codex OAuth shows the subscription plan, quota windows, and credit balance.
- `OPENAI_ADMIN_KEY` shows 30 days of provider-reported organization cost and completions usage in Control UI **Usage**, including daily spend, request/token totals, top models, and cost categories.
- `OPENAI_PROJECT_ID` optionally scopes Admin API history to one project.
- OpenClaw never sends `OPENAI_API_KEY` or an `openai` inference profile to organization APIs; those credentials may belong to custom, Azure, or agent-local endpoints.
An explicit Admin key takes precedence over OAuth. Provider-reported history is not merged with OpenClaw's session-derived estimated cost; it can include API activity from other clients and provider-side billing adjustments.
OpenAI's [API Usage Dashboard](https://help.openai.com/en/articles/10478918) documentation describes the organization-owner and explicit Usage Dashboard permission requirements for usage data.
Provider, model, runtime, and channel are separate layers. If those labels are
getting mixed together, read [Agent runtimes](/concepts/agent-runtimes) before
changing config.
## Quick choice
| Goal | Use | Notes |
| ------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| ChatGPT/Codex subscription, native Codex runtime | `openai/gpt-5.6-sol` | Fresh subscription setup; sign in with Codex auth. |
| Direct API-key billing for agent turns | `openai/gpt-5.6-sol` plus an ordered API-key auth profile | Fresh API-key setup uses the explicit Sol id. |
| Choose an exact GPT-5.6 tier | `openai/gpt-5.6-sol`, `-terra`, or `-luna` | Check `models list` for the tiers available to this account. |
| Account without GPT-5.6 access | `openai/gpt-5.5` | Explicit recovery choice; OpenClaw does not silently downgrade. |
| Direct API-key billing, explicit OpenClaw runtime | `openai/gpt-5.6` plus provider/model `agentRuntime.id: "openclaw"` | Select a normal `openai` API-key profile. |
| Latest ChatGPT Instant model alias | `openai/chat-latest` | Direct API-key only; moving alias, not the stable default. |
| Image generation or editing | `openai/gpt-image-2` | Works with `OPENAI_API_KEY` or Codex OAuth. |
| Transparent-background images | `openai/gpt-image-1.5` | Set `outputFormat` to `png` or `webp` and `background=transparent`. |
## GPT-6 Astra
Select `openai/gpt-6-astra` with an OpenAI API-key profile or a ChatGPT/Codex
subscription that has access to Astra. Access is rolling out; a successful
account catalog remains authoritative, so adding model support does not grant
access to an account that has not received it.
If ChatGPT/Codex catalog discovery is unavailable, the offline fallback list
omits Astra until account discovery succeeds.
```bash
openclaw models set openai/gpt-6-astra
```
Astra uses the Responses API for agent tool calls. It supports text and image
input, a 1,050,000-token context window, and up to 128,000 output tokens.
OpenClaw retains its ordinary 272,000-token active input budget by default.
The supported reasoning efforts are `low`, `medium`, `high`, `xhigh`, and `max`.
An existing `minimal` setting maps to `low`. Astra cannot disable reasoning;
`off` never sends the unsupported `none` effort.
Temperature and `top_p` are not sent.
These defaults also apply to configured Astra model entries without explicit
reasoning or temperature compatibility metadata.
Azure Responses deployments continue to use their configured capabilities.
`/think ultra` is also available on the OpenClaw and Codex runtimes. Ultra enables
proactive sub-agent orchestration; it is not a raw Responses API effort. OpenClaw
uses `max`, while native Codex selects Astra's model-defined effort (`xhigh`).
Standard pricing per million tokens is $10 input, $1 cache reads, $12.50 cache
writes, and $50 output. Requests above 272K input tokens have higher rates.
See the [Astra model reference](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/models/gpt-6-astra)
and [migration guide](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/guides/latest-model?model=gpt-6-astra).
### Async tools, steering, and reasoning changes
Use an OpenAI Platform API-key profile and the built-in OpenClaw runtime for
these Astra capabilities. They require the official `https://api.openai.com/v1`
Responses endpoint. Configure the existing model settings:
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
models: {
"openai/gpt-6-astra": {
agentRuntime: { id: "openclaw" },
params: {
transport: "auto",
responsesServerCompaction: false,
},
},
},
},
},
}
```
- **Async function calls:** Astra can continue reasoning while OpenClaw runs a
direct function tool. OpenClaw sends the completed result in the next model
request after the active response finishes. This
applies to direct tools; code-mode tools retain their existing execution flow.
- **Mid-turn steering:** [Steering messages](/concepts/queue#queue-modes) can
reach Astra while it is reasoning, using the active session's cached
WebSocket. Use `auto` or `websocket-cached`; SSE keeps ordinary queued
steering at the next available runtime boundary. Each live batch owns one
response; later messages can steer its successor. Context or payload hooks
that rewrite the active request's prefix keep ordinary queued delivery.
- **Reasoning changes without rebuilding the cached prefix:** Change the
[thinking level](/tools/thinking), for example with `/think high`, before
the next user turn. OpenClaw preserves the original request-level effort
and places a `configuration_update` at the new turn. This optimization
works across matching session history over SSE or cached WebSockets.
Automatic steering continuations keep their inherited settings. If steering
waits for a tool result or approval, the explicit continuation uses current
request settings, including output limits and reasoning settings, without
repeating accepted steering. Earlier `configuration_update` items retain
their effect; a changed request-level effort does not replace those controls.
When accepted steering waits for a tool result or approval and its history
contains effort controls, finish that input with a compatible Astra model
and mode before switching.
The example disables automatic server compaction because OpenAI cannot combine
it with configuration updates. Cache-preserving effort changes also exclude
automatic truncation, pro mode, and API multi-agent mode. The cache state is
local to the running process or connection; expiry, restart, or rewritten
history starts a fresh request using the selected effort.
The native [Codex harness](/plugins/codex-harness) owns its own Responses loop;
these built-in-runtime capabilities do not imply native Codex support.
## Naming map
| Name you see | Layer | Meaning |
| --------------------------------------- | ----------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| `openai` | Provider prefix | Canonical OpenAI model route; route facts determine the implicit runtime. |
| `codex` plugin | Plugin | Bundled plugin providing the native Codex app-server runtime and `/codex` chat controls. |
| provider/model `agentRuntime.id: codex` | Agent runtime | Force the native Codex app-server harness for matching embedded turns. |
| `/codex ...` | Chat command set | Bind/control Codex app-server threads from a conversation. |
| `runtime: "acp", agentId: "codex"` | ACP session route | Explicit fallback path that runs Codex through ACP/acpx. |
## Implicit agent runtime
When provider/model `agentRuntime` policy is unset or `auto`, OpenAI's
provider-owned route policy chooses the implicit runtime from the effective
endpoint and adapter:
| Effective route facts | Implicit runtime |
| ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------------------- |
| Exact official Platform HTTPS endpoint with `openai-responses`, or exact official ChatGPT HTTPS endpoint with `openai-chatgpt-responses`; no authored provider request override | Codex may be selected |
| Authored `openai-completions` adapter | OpenClaw |
| Custom endpoint | OpenClaw |
| Explicit exact official endpoint using HTTP | Rejected |
| Route with an authored provider/model request override | OpenClaw |
Valid model-scoped `params.fastMode` / `params.fast_mode`, cutoff, and `thinking`
values are typed agent-runtime controls, not authored provider request params.
Affirmative reasoning support and native reasoning-effort metadata also preserve
Codex selection. See [Runtime selection](/concepts/agent-runtimes#runtime-selection)
for the supported capability values and the request overrides that remain protected.
An explicit `agentRuntime.id: "openclaw"` keeps a Codex-eligible route on
OpenClaw. Explicit `agentRuntime.id: "codex"` requires a registered Codex harness;
unsupported routes/auth fail closed, except that authored request overrides may
use Codex's declared exact-request OpenClaw fallback before execution. Inspect
the completed result's actual harness when a recipe depends on native execution.
Runtime selection does not change credential type or billing: Platform API-key
auth and ChatGPT/Codex subscription auth remain distinct.
`openclaw doctor --fix` migrates legacy `codex/*` and `openai-codex/*` model
refs, legacy Codex auth profile ids, and legacy Codex auth-order entries to the
canonical `openai` route. Migrated model refs receive model-scoped
`agentRuntime.id: "codex"`; use `auth.order.openai` for new auth-order config.
Fresh OpenAI setup applies a GPT-5.6 primary only when no primary model is
configured. Adding or refreshing OpenAI auth preserves an existing explicit
selection, including `openai/gpt-5.5`, unless you explicitly use
`models auth login --set-default` or `models set`. Use an API-key auth profile
only when you want API-key auth for an agent model.
## GPT-5.6 limited preview
OpenClaw recognizes the exact `openai/gpt-5.6-sol`,
`openai/gpt-5.6-terra`, and `openai/gpt-5.6-luna` model ids. All three expose
`xhigh` and `max` reasoning in the current catalog. OpenAI describes Sol as
the flagship tier, Terra as the balanced tier, and Luna as the fast,
lower-cost tier. See the
[GPT-5.6 launch announcement](https://openai.com/index/previewing-gpt-5-6-sol/)
and [access guide](https://help.openai.com/en/articles/20001325-a-preview-of-gpt-5-6-sol-terra-and-luna).
OpenAI's [GPT-5.6 Sol model page](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/models/gpt-5.6-sol)
documents the bare `openai/gpt-5.6` id as a supported alias for Sol. Fresh
API-key and ChatGPT/Codex OAuth setup use the canonical `openai/gpt-5.6-sol`
ref so model pickers do not show both names for the same tier. Run
`openclaw doctor --fix` to rewrite persisted bare OpenAI refs to that canonical
identity. The native Codex catalog can show the exact Sol, Terra, and Luna ids depending on
workspace access. Check the current account with:
```bash
openclaw models list --provider openai
```
API organization and Codex workspace access can differ. If GPT-5.6 is not
available, select GPT-5.5 explicitly:
```bash
openclaw models set openai/gpt-5.5
```
OpenClaw surfaces the upstream access error and does not silently replace a
GPT-5.6 selection with GPT-5.5.
Eligible exact official HTTPS routes may select the bundled Codex app-server
plugin when runtime policy is unset or `auto`; authored Completions routes,
custom endpoints, and request-transport overrides remain on OpenClaw. Plaintext
official HTTP endpoints are rejected. Explicit provider/model runtime config remains
authoritative. Run `openclaw doctor --fix` to repair stale legacy Codex model
refs, `codex-cli/*` refs, or old runtime session pins that were not set by
explicit runtime config.
## OpenClaw feature coverage
| OpenAI capability | OpenClaw surface | Status |
| ------------------------- | --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------------------ |
| Chat / Responses | `openai/` model provider | Yes |
| Codex subscription models | `openai/` with OpenAI OAuth | Yes |
| Legacy Codex model refs | old Codex model refs, `codex-cli/` | Repaired by doctor to `openai/` |
| Codex app-server harness | Codex-compatible HTTPS route with runtime unset/`auto`, or explicit `agentRuntime.id: codex` | Yes |
| Server-side web search | Native OpenAI Responses tool | Yes, when web search is enabled and no other provider is pinned |
| Images | `image_generate` | Yes |
| Videos | `video_generate` | Yes |
| Text-to-speech | `tts.provider: "openai"` / `tts` | Yes |
| Batch speech-to-text | `tools.media.audio` / media understanding | Yes |
| Streaming speech-to-text | Voice Call `streaming.provider: "openai"` | Yes |
| Realtime voice | Voice Call `realtime.provider: "openai"` / Control UI Talk `talk.realtime.provider: "openai"` | Yes (Platform API key; ChatGPT OAuth for browser/Gateway-relay GPT-Live) |
| Embeddings | memory embedding provider | Yes |
GA OpenAI Realtime backend voice bridges require a Platform API key. GA browser
Talk can also use an OpenClaw ChatGPT OAuth profile when no Platform credential
is configured. Browser and Gateway-relay GPT-Live prefer a ChatGPT OAuth
profile and create calls through the Codex backend. With Platform API-key auth,
they use `api.openai.com/v1/live`, which requires API access. Other GPT-Live backend voice bridges use the Frameless
Bidi WebSocket and require Platform API-key auth.
Platform auth is resolved in this order: configured realtime API key, `openai`
API-key profile, then `OPENAI_API_KEY`. Voice Call, Discord realtime voice,
GA Gateway relay, and realtime transcription still require Platform auth.
If API-key auth reports missing billing, top up Platform credits at
[platform.openai.com/account/billing](https://platform.openai.com/account/billing)
for the organization backing your realtime credentials when using API-key
auth. Realtime voice accepts the `openai` API-key auth profile created by
`openclaw onboard --auth-choice openai-api-key`, a Platform API key set via
`talk.realtime.providers.openai.apiKey` for Control UI Talk, or
`plugins.entries.voice-call.config.realtime.providers.openai.apiKey` for Voice
Call, or the `OPENAI_API_KEY` environment variable.
In Control UI Video Talk with Platform auth, OpenAI WebRTC receives camera context on demand:
when the model calls `describe_view`, the browser sends one bounded JPEG over
the realtime data channel. OpenClaw does not attach a continuous camera track
to the OpenAI session.
## Memory embeddings
OpenClaw can use OpenAI, or an OpenAI-compatible embedding endpoint, for
`memory_search` indexing and query embeddings:
```json5
{
memory: {
search: {
provider: "openai",
model: "text-embedding-3-small",
},
},
}
```
For OpenAI-compatible endpoints that require asymmetric embedding labels, set
`queryInputType` and `documentInputType` under `memory.search`. OpenClaw
forwards these as provider-specific `input_type` request fields: query
embeddings use `queryInputType`; indexed memory chunks and batch indexing use
`documentInputType`. See the
[Memory configuration reference](/reference/memory-config#provider-specific-config)
for the full example.
## Getting started
**Best for:** direct API access and usage-based billing.
Create or copy an API key from the [OpenAI Platform dashboard](https://platform.openai.com/api-keys).
```bash
openclaw onboard --auth-choice openai-api-key
```
Or pass the key directly:
```bash
openclaw onboard --openai-api-key "$OPENAI_API_KEY"
```
```bash
openclaw models list --provider openai
```
### Route summary
| Model ref | Runtime policy or route facts | Route | Auth |
| ---------------- | ------------------------------------------------------------- | ------------------------- | --------------------------------- |
| `openai/gpt-5.6` | unset/`auto`, exact official HTTPS native route, no request override | Codex may be selected | Ordered API-key auth profile |
| `openai/gpt-5.6` | provider/model `agentRuntime.id: "openclaw"` | OpenClaw embedded runtime | Selected `openai` API-key profile |
| `openai/gpt-5.5` | explicit provider/model `agentRuntime.id` | Selected agent runtime | Selected OpenAI API-key profile |
| `openai/*` | authored Completions, custom, or request override | OpenClaw embedded runtime | Credential type remains unchanged |
| `openai/*` | plaintext official HTTP endpoint | Rejected | Credential is not sent |
With runtime unset or `auto`, only an eligible exact official HTTPS native
route may select the Codex app-server harness implicitly. For API-key auth
on an agent model, create an `openai` API-key auth profile and order it with
`auth.order.openai`; `OPENAI_API_KEY` remains the direct fallback for
non-agent OpenAI API surfaces. Run `openclaw doctor --fix` to migrate older
legacy Codex auth-order entries.
### Config example
```json5
{
env: { vars: { OPENAI_API_KEY: "example-openai-key-not-real" } },
agents: { defaults: { model: { primary: "openai/gpt-5.6-sol" } } },
}
```
The bare direct-API `gpt-5.6` alias is also accepted and resolves to the
Sol tier. If this API organization does not expose GPT-5.6, set the primary
to `openai/gpt-5.5` explicitly.
To try ChatGPT's current Instant model from the OpenAI API, set the model
to `openai/chat-latest`:
```json5
{
env: { vars: { OPENAI_API_KEY: "example-openai-key-not-real" } },
agents: { defaults: { model: { primary: "openai/chat-latest" } } },
}
```
`chat-latest` is a moving alias. Fresh OpenAI API-key setup instead uses
`openai/gpt-5.6-sol`. The bare direct-API `openai/gpt-5.6` alias remains
supported and resolves to Sol. Existing
explicit primaries, including `openai/gpt-5.5`, remain unchanged. The
`chat-latest` alias only accepts `medium` text verbosity; OpenClaw forces
any other requested verbosity to `medium` for this model.
OpenClaw does **not** expose `gpt-5.3-codex-spark` on the direct OpenAI
API-key route. It is available only through Codex subscription catalog
entries when your signed-in account exposes it.
**Best for:** using your ChatGPT/Codex subscription with native Codex
app-server execution instead of a separate API key. Codex cloud requires
ChatGPT sign-in.
```bash
openclaw onboard --auth-choice openai
```
Or run OAuth directly:
```bash
openclaw models auth login --provider openai
```
For headless or callback-hostile setups, add `--device-code` to sign
in with a ChatGPT device-code flow instead of the localhost browser
callback:
```bash
openclaw models auth login --provider openai --device-code
```
```bash
openclaw config set agents.defaults.model.primary openai/gpt-5.6-sol
```
No runtime config is required for this exact official HTTPS native
route. It may select the Codex app-server runtime automatically, and
OpenClaw installs or repairs the bundled Codex plugin when that runtime
is chosen.
```bash
openclaw models list --provider openai
```
After the gateway is running, send `/codex status` or `/codex models`
in chat to verify the native app-server runtime.
### Route summary
| Model ref | Runtime policy or route facts | Route | Auth |
| ------------------------ | ------------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------------- | -------------------------------------------------- |
| `openai/gpt-5.6-sol` | unset/`auto`, exact official HTTPS native route, no request override | Codex may be selected | Codex sign-in, or an ordered `openai` auth profile |
| `openai/gpt-5.6-terra` | unset/`auto`, exact official HTTPS native route, no request override | Codex may be selected | Codex sign-in when the catalog exposes Terra |
| `openai/gpt-5.6-luna` | unset/`auto`, exact official HTTPS native route, no request override | Codex may be selected | Codex sign-in when the catalog exposes Luna |
| `openai/gpt-5.6-sol` | provider/model `agentRuntime.id: "openclaw"` | OpenClaw embedded runtime, internal Codex-auth transport | Selected `openai` OAuth profile |
| `openai/gpt-5.5` | explicit provider/model `agentRuntime.id` | Selected agent runtime | Selected OpenAI auth profile |
| `openai/*` | authored Completions, custom, or request override | OpenClaw embedded runtime | Credential requirement remains route-specific |
| `openai/*` | plaintext official HTTP endpoint | Rejected | Credential is not sent |
| Legacy Codex GPT-5.5 ref | repaired by doctor | Rewritten to `openai/gpt-5.5` | Migrated OpenAI OAuth profile |
| `codex-cli/gpt-5.5` | repaired by doctor | Rewritten to `openai/gpt-5.5` | Codex app-server auth |
Fresh subscription-backed setup uses exact `openai/gpt-5.6-sol`; the
native Codex catalog may also expose exact Terra or Luna refs. If the
account does not expose GPT-5.6, select `openai/gpt-5.5` explicitly. Older
Codex GPT refs are legacy OpenClaw routes, not the native Codex runtime
path; run `openclaw doctor --fix` to migrate them without upgrading an
existing explicit GPT-5.5 selection. `gpt-5.3-codex-spark` stays limited
to accounts whose Codex subscription catalog advertises it; direct OpenAI
API-key and Azure refs for it stay suppressed.
New config should put OpenAI agent auth order under `auth.order.openai`;
doctor migrates older legacy Codex auth-order entries.
### Config example
```json5
{
plugins: { entries: { codex: { enabled: true } } },
agents: {
defaults: {
model: { primary: "openai/gpt-5.6-sol" },
},
},
}
```
With an API-key backup, keep the selected model under `openai/*` and put
the auth order under `openai`. OpenClaw tries the subscription first, then
the API key, while staying on the Codex harness:
```json5
{
plugins: { entries: { codex: { enabled: true } } },
agents: {
defaults: {
model: { primary: "openai/gpt-5.6-sol" },
},
},
auth: {
order: {
openai: [
"openai:user@example.com",
"openai:api-key-backup",
],
},
},
}
```
Onboarding no longer imports OAuth material from `~/.codex`. Sign in with
browser OAuth (default) or the device-code flow above; OpenClaw manages the
resulting credentials in its own agent auth store.
### Check and recover Codex OAuth routing
```bash
openclaw models status
openclaw models auth list --provider openai
openclaw config get agents.defaults.model --json
openclaw config get models.providers.openai.agentRuntime --json
```
For a specific agent, add `--agent `:
```bash
openclaw models status --agent
openclaw models auth list --agent --provider openai
```
If an older config still has legacy Codex GPT refs, or a stale OpenAI
runtime session pin without explicit runtime config, repair it:
```bash
openclaw doctor --fix
openclaw config validate
```
If `models auth list --provider openai` shows no usable profile, sign in
again:
```bash
openclaw models auth login --provider openai
openclaw models status --probe --probe-provider openai
```
Use `--profile-id` for multiple Codex OAuth logins in the same agent, then
control them via auth ordering or `/model ...@ -s`:
```bash
openclaw models auth login --provider openai --profile-id openai:ritsuko
openclaw models auth login --provider openai --profile-id openai:lain
```
Run `openclaw doctor --fix` to migrate older legacy OpenAI Codex prefix
profile ids and order entries before relying on profile ordering.
### Status indicator
Chat `/status` shows which model runtime is active for the current
session. The bundled Codex app-server harness appears as
`Runtime: OpenAI Codex` when an eligible implicit route or explicit
provider/model runtime policy selects it.
### Doctor warning
If legacy Codex model refs or stale OpenAI runtime pins remain in config
or session state, `openclaw doctor --fix` rewrites them to `openai/*` with
the Codex runtime unless OpenClaw is explicitly configured.
### Context window defaults and long-context opt-in
OpenClaw treats native model capacity and the active runtime budget as
separate values:
- `contextWindow` declares the model's native window.
- `contextTokens` caps how much of that window OpenClaw uses for active input.
ChatGPT/Codex OAuth follows the live Codex account catalog. The current
catalog commonly advertises a `272000` token active window for GPT-5.6.
Direct API-key GPT-5.5 and GPT-5.6 models also default to `272000`
`contextTokens`, even though the Platform API exposes a larger native
window. This keeps the normal latency, quality, and cost profile consistent
across auth modes. Override a direct model's active-input budget with
`models.providers.openai.models[].contextTokens` on that exact model entry.
For direct API-key GPT-5.5 and GPT-5.6, OpenAI documents a `1050000`
token provider window and `128000` maximum output tokens. Reserving the
full output allowance gives the shared safe input budget used by both
runtime recipes below:
```text
1050000 total - 128000 maximum output = 922000 safe active input
automatic compaction threshold = 700000 active tokens
```
`922000` is a derived operating budget, not a separate provider-published
input limit. The two runtimes translate that budget differently: embedded
OpenClaw sends Responses compaction controls, while native Codex owns its
catalog window and automatic compaction. See the official
[model comparison](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/models/compare)
and [GPT-5.5 model page](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/models/gpt-5.5).
#### Embedded OpenClaw translation
This example pins the exact Sol model to the embedded OpenClaw runtime,
enables OpenAI API Fast mode through the shared runtime control, and asks OpenAI Responses
to compact at `700000` active tokens:
```json5
{
models: {
providers: {
openai: {
models: [
{
id: "gpt-5.6-sol",
name: "GPT-5.6 Sol",
contextWindow: 1050000,
contextTokens: 922000,
maxTokens: 128000,
},
],
},
},
},
agents: {
defaults: {
model: { primary: "openai/gpt-5.6-sol" },
models: {
"openai/gpt-5.6-sol": {
agentRuntime: { id: "openclaw" },
params: {
fastMode: true,
responsesServerCompaction: true,
responsesCompactThreshold: 700000,
},
},
},
},
},
}
```
OpenAI Responses automatic compaction emits an encrypted `compaction`
output item. A stateless client carries the newest item into the next
request and may drop every earlier input item. OpenClaw persists that item
opaquely, fences reuse by route, session, and auth, replays it, prunes the
replaced prefix, carries it through worker transcript commits, and removes
it from display and diagnostics. Never print, log, or expose the encrypted
content.
A process-owned isolated-Gateway run verified this exact
`openai/gpt-5.6-sol` configuration. Dense turns reached `295098`, `586562`,
and `863664` prompt tokens. Turn three emitted and persisted a first-class
server compaction item; the next request replayed that exact opaque item,
pruned its prefix, and used `9602` prompt tokens. A deterministic long
response produced `5480` output tokens, durable markers survived compaction
and Gateway restart, restart latency was `12081` ms, every call reported
`serviceTier: priority`, and the full suite took `220.03` seconds. These
timings are observations, not service-level guarantees.
#### Native Codex translation
Keep the same OpenClaw model selection, but make Codex the explicit runtime
and do not add Responses compaction params to this model entry:
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
model: { primary: "openai/gpt-5.6-sol" },
models: {
"openai/gpt-5.6-sol": {
agentRuntime: { id: "codex" },
params: { fastMode: true },
},
},
},
},
}
```
Codex must receive `922000` for both `context_window` and
`max_context_window`, `700000` for `auto_compact_token_limit`, and matching
app-server overrides with `model_auto_compact_token_limit_scope=total`.
Codex then applies its 95% effective-window reserve, yielding `875900`
active tokens. Configure an ordered OpenAI API-key profile and keep the
default isolated agent-scoped Codex home. The complete catalog, app-server,
auth, and restart recipe is in
[Codex harness long context](/plugins/codex-harness#direct-api-long-context).
These examples are two explicit runtime choices, not one auto-selecting
configuration. The model-scoped `agentRuntime` and runtime-owned compaction
settings must change together. OpenClaw can retain both choices only when
their model refs or agent configurations are distinguishable; otherwise,
switch the model runtime and its matching config as one atomic change. Then
restart the Gateway and native Codex app-server, run `/model default -s`,
and start a fresh chat. Existing native Codex threads retain the provider
and model recorded when they were created.
OpenAI applies higher long-context pricing once a GPT-5.5 or GPT-5.6
request exceeds `272000` input tokens: the whole qualifying request is
billed at 2× input and cache rates and 1.5× output rates. Fast-mode pricing
is model-specific; GPT-5.6 Sol API Fast mode is currently another 2× over
Standard. For that model, combined long-context Fast traffic is therefore
4× short-context Standard input-side pricing and 3× short-context Standard
output pricing. Large prompts are resent or compacted across turns, so an
opt-in session can cost substantially more than the default even when the
visible reply is short. See [Fast mode](https://openai.com/api-priority-processing/)
and [OpenAI API pricing](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/pricing).
The API remains authoritative for account access, actual limits, and billing.
### Catalog recovery
OpenClaw uses upstream Codex catalog metadata for `gpt-5.5` when it is
present. If live Codex discovery omits the `gpt-5.5` row while the account
is authenticated, OpenClaw synthesizes that OAuth model row so cron,
sub-agent, and configured default-model runs do not fail with
`Unknown model`.
## Native Codex app-server auth
The native Codex app-server harness uses `openai/*` model refs when an eligible
exact official HTTPS route selects it implicitly, or when provider/model
`agentRuntime.id: "codex"` selects it explicitly. Its auth is still
account-based. OpenClaw selects auth in this order:
1. Ordered OpenAI auth profiles for the agent, preferably under
`auth.order.openai`. Run `openclaw doctor --fix` to migrate older legacy
Codex auth profile ids and auth order.
2. The app-server's existing account, such as a local Codex CLI ChatGPT
sign-in. For the default isolated agent home, OpenClaw bridges that native
CLI account into the app-server through its login RPC; it does not share the
CLI's config, plugins, or thread store.
3. For local stdio app-server launches only, and only when the app-server
reports no account: `CODEX_API_KEY`, then `OPENAI_API_KEY`.
The default per-agent `codex-home/auth.json` is not a runtime auth store. If
you copied or mounted Codex CLI credentials there, import them into the agent's
OpenClaw auth store before starting a native Codex turn. Replace ``
with the configured agent that owns this Codex home:
```bash
openclaw migrate plan codex --from --agent --include-secrets --item auth:openai
openclaw migrate apply codex --from --agent --include-secrets --item auth:openai --yes
```
A local ChatGPT/Codex subscription sign-in is not replaced just because the
gateway process also has `OPENAI_API_KEY` for direct OpenAI models or
embeddings. The env API-key fallback applies only to the local stdio no-account
path; it is never sent over WebSocket app-server connections. When a
subscription-style Codex profile is selected, OpenClaw also keeps
`CODEX_API_KEY` and `OPENAI_API_KEY` out of the spawned stdio app-server child
and sends the selected credentials through the app-server login RPC instead.
When that subscription profile is blocked by a Codex usage limit, OpenClaw
marks the profile blocked until Codex's advertised reset time and lets auth
ordering rotate to the next `openai:*` profile, without changing the selected
model or dropping out of the Codex harness. Once the reset time passes, the
subscription profile is eligible again.
## Image generation
The bundled `openai` plugin registers image generation through the
`image_generate` tool. It supports both OpenAI API-key and Codex OAuth image
generation through the same `openai/gpt-image-2` model ref.
| Capability | OpenAI API key | Codex OAuth |
| ------------------------- | ---------------------------------- | ------------------------------------ |
| Model ref | `openai/gpt-image-2` | `openai/gpt-image-2` |
| Auth | `OPENAI_API_KEY` | OpenAI Codex OAuth sign-in |
| Transport | OpenAI Images API | Codex Responses backend |
| Max images per request | 4 | 4 |
| Edit mode | Enabled (up to 5 reference images) | Enabled (up to 5 reference images) |
| Moderation | `low` or `auto`; generate and edit | `low` or `auto`; generate and edit |
| Size overrides | Supported, including 2K/4K sizes | Supported, including 2K/4K sizes |
| Aspect ratio / resolution | Not forwarded to OpenAI Images API | Mapped to a supported size when safe |
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
mediaModels: { image: { primary: "openai/gpt-image-2" } },
},
},
}
```
See [Image Generation](/tools/image-generation) for shared tool parameters,
provider selection, and failover behavior.
`gpt-image-2` is the default for OpenAI text-to-image generation and image
editing. `gpt-image-1.5`, `gpt-image-1`, and `gpt-image-1-mini` remain usable
as explicit model overrides. Use `openai/gpt-image-1.5` for
transparent-background PNG/WebP output; the current `gpt-image-2` API rejects
`background: "transparent"`.
For a transparent-background request, call `image_generate` with
`model: "openai/gpt-image-1.5"`, `outputFormat: "png"` or `"webp"`, and
`background: "transparent"`; the older `openai.background` provider option is
still accepted. OpenClaw also protects the public OpenAI and OpenAI Codex OAuth
routes by rewriting default `openai/gpt-image-2` transparent requests to
`gpt-image-1.5`; Azure and custom OpenAI-compatible endpoints keep their
configured deployment/model names.
The same setting is exposed for headless CLI runs:
```bash
openclaw infer image generate \
--model openai/gpt-image-1.5 \
--output-format png \
--background transparent \
--prompt "A simple red circle sticker on a transparent background" \
--json
```
Use the same `--output-format` and `--background` flags with
`openclaw infer image edit` when starting from an input file.
`--openai-background` remains available as an OpenAI-specific alias. Use
`--quality low|medium|high|auto` to control OpenAI Images quality and cost.
Use `--openai-moderation low|auto` with both `image generate` and `image edit`
to pass OpenAI's moderation hint. The direct OpenAI Images API and the
ChatGPT/Codex OAuth Responses backend both support moderation for text-to-image
generation and reference-image edits.
For ChatGPT/Codex OAuth installs, keep the same `openai/gpt-image-2` ref. When
an `openai` OAuth profile is configured, OpenClaw resolves that stored OAuth
access token and sends image requests through the Codex Responses backend; it
does not first try `OPENAI_API_KEY` or silently fall back to an API key.
Configure `models.providers.openai` explicitly with an API key, custom base
URL, or Azure endpoint when you want the direct OpenAI Images API route
instead. If that custom image endpoint is on a trusted LAN/private address,
also set `browser.ssrfPolicy.dangerouslyAllowPrivateNetwork: true`; OpenClaw
keeps private/internal OpenAI-compatible image endpoints blocked unless this
opt-in is present.
Generate:
```
/tool image_generate model=openai/gpt-image-2 prompt="A polished launch poster for OpenClaw on macOS" size=3840x2160 count=1
```
Generate a transparent PNG:
```
/tool image_generate model=openai/gpt-image-1.5 prompt="A simple red circle sticker on a transparent background" outputFormat=png background=transparent
```
Edit:
```
/tool image_generate model=openai/gpt-image-2 prompt="Preserve the object shape, change the material to translucent glass" image=/path/to/reference.png size=1024x1536
```
## Video generation
The bundled `openai` plugin registers video generation through the
`video_generate` tool.
| Capability | Value |
| ---------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| Default model | `openai/sora-2` |
| Modes | Text-to-video, image-to-video, single-video edit |
| Reference inputs | 1 image or 1 video |
| Size overrides | Supported for text-to-video and image-to-video |
| Aspect ratio | Converted to the closest supported size, not forwarded raw |
| Other overrides | `resolution`, `audio`, `watermark` are unsupported and dropped with a tool warning |
OpenAI image-to-video requests use `POST /v1/videos` with an image
`input_reference`. Single-video edits use `POST /v1/videos/edits` with the
uploaded video in the `video` field.
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
mediaModels: { video: { primary: "openai/sora-2" } },
},
},
}
```
See [Video Generation](/tools/video-generation) for shared tool parameters,
provider selection, and failover behavior.
The OpenAI provider declares `supportsSize` but not `supportsAspectRatio` or
`supportsResolution`. OpenClaw's shared normalization layer converts a
requested `aspectRatio` into the closest matching OpenAI `size` before the
request reaches the provider, so aspect-ratio requests generally still work.
`resolution` has no size fallback and is dropped, surfaced to the caller as
`Ignored unsupported overrides for openai/: resolution=`.
## GPT-5 prompt contribution
OpenClaw adds a shared GPT-5 prompt contribution to matching GPT-5-family
OpenClaw-assembled prompts. The OpenAI plugin setting below controls the
friendly style on OpenAI-family routes. Older GPT-4.x model ids do not match.
The native Codex app-server harness does not receive the persona/tool-
discipline behavior contract or the friendly interaction-style overlay through
developer instructions; native Codex keeps Codex-owned base, model, and
project-doc behavior, and OpenClaw disables Codex's built-in personality for
native threads so agent workspace personality files stay authoritative.
OpenClaw contributes only runtime context to native Codex threads: channel
delivery, OpenClaw dynamic tools, ACP delegation, workspace context, and
OpenClaw skills. The heartbeat-guidance text from this same contribution is the
one exception: native Codex heartbeat turns do get it, injected as dedicated
collaboration instructions rather than through the shared prompt-contribution
hook.
The GPT-5 contribution adds a tagged behavior contract for persona
persistence, execution safety, tool discipline, output shape, completion
checks, and verification on matching OpenClaw-assembled prompts. Channel-
specific reply and silent-message behavior stays in the shared OpenClaw system
prompt and outbound delivery policy. The friendly interaction-style layer is
separate and configurable.
| Value | Effect |
| ---------------------- | ------------------------------------------- |
| `"friendly"` (default) | Enable the friendly interaction-style layer |
| `"on"` | Alias for `"friendly"` |
| `"off"` | Disable only the friendly style layer |
```json5
{
plugins: {
entries: {
openai: {
config: { personality: "friendly" },
},
},
},
}
```
```bash
openclaw config set plugins.entries.openai.config.personality off
```
Values are case-insensitive at runtime, so `"Off"` and `"off"` both disable the
friendly style layer.
The retired `agents.defaults.promptOverlays` key is no longer read; config
validation rejects it, and `openclaw doctor --fix` migrates its personality
value into `plugins.entries.openai.config.personality` when that key is unset.
## Voice and speech
The bundled `openai` plugin registers speech synthesis for the
`tts` surface.
| Setting | Config path | Default |
| ------------- | --------------------------------------------------------- | ----------------------------------- |
| Model | `tts.providers.openai.model` | `gpt-4o-mini-tts` |
| Voice | `tts.providers.openai.speakerVoice` | `coral` |
| Speed | `tts.providers.openai.speed` | (unset) |
| Instructions | `tts.providers.openai.instructions` | (unset, `gpt-4o-mini-tts` family only) |
| Format | `tts.providers.openai.responseFormat` | `opus` for voice notes, `mp3` for files |
| API key | `tts.providers.openai.apiKey` | Falls back to `OPENAI_API_KEY` |
| Base URL | `tts.providers.openai.baseUrl` | `https://api.openai.com/v1` |
| Extra body | `tts.providers.openai.extraBody` / `extra_body` | (unset) |
Available models: `gpt-4o-mini-tts`, `gpt-4o-mini-tts-2025-12-15`, `tts-1`,
`tts-1-hd`. Available voices: `alloy`, `ash`, `ballad`, `cedar`, `coral`,
`echo`, `fable`, `juniper`, `marin`, `onyx`, `nova`, `sage`, `shimmer`,
`verse`.
`extraBody` is merged into `/audio/speech` request JSON after OpenClaw's
generated fields, so use it for OpenAI-compatible endpoints that require
additional keys such as `lang`. Prototype keys are ignored.
```json5
{
tts: {
providers: {
openai: { model: "gpt-4o-mini-tts", speakerVoice: "coral" },
},
},
}
```
Set `OPENAI_TTS_BASE_URL` to override the TTS base URL without affecting
the chat API endpoint. OpenAI TTS requires an OpenAI Platform API key.
OAuth-only installs can use Codex-backed chat models, GPT-Live browser
and Gateway-relay Talk, and GA Realtime browser Talk over a ChatGPT
subscription when the account has access (see the Realtime accordion).
OpenAI TTS, Voice Call, GA Gateway relay, and Discord realtime voice still
require a Platform API key.
The bundled `openai` plugin registers batch speech-to-text through
OpenClaw's media-understanding transcription surface.
Batch transcription can use the selected OpenAI API-key or ChatGPT OAuth
profile on the standard transcription endpoint when the account permits it.
Configured models, prompts, and language hints work through the same request
path. Access and quota errors are reported without switching credential
classes; OAuth support does not imply included or unlimited transcription.
Custom endpoints and request overrides require an API-key profile.
See [Audio and voice notes](/nodes/audio#openai-transcription-alongside-chatgpt%2Fcodex-oauth)
for selecting a separate audio API-key profile when desired.
- Default model: `gpt-4o-transcribe`
- Endpoint: OpenAI REST `/v1/audio/transcriptions`
- Input path: multipart audio file upload
- Used wherever inbound audio transcription reads `tools.media.audio`,
including Discord voice-channel segments and channel audio attachments
To force OpenAI for inbound audio transcription:
```json5
{
tools: {
media: {
models: [
{
type: "provider",
provider: "openai",
model: "gpt-4o-transcribe",
capabilities: ["audio"],
},
],
audio: {
enabled: true,
},
},
},
}
```
Language and prompt hints are forwarded to OpenAI when supplied by the
shared audio media config or per-call transcription request.
The bundled `openai` plugin registers realtime transcription for the
Voice Call plugin.
| Setting | Config path | Default |
| ----------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- | --------- |
| Model | `plugins.entries.voice-call.config.streaming.providers.openai.model` | `gpt-4o-transcribe` |
| Language | `...openai.language` | (unset) |
| Prompt | `...openai.prompt` | (unset) |
| Silence duration | `...openai.silenceDurationMs` | `800` |
| VAD threshold | `...openai.vadThreshold` | `0.5` |
| Auth | `...openai.apiKey`, `OPENAI_API_KEY`, or `openai` API-key profile | Platform API key required |
Uses a WebSocket connection to `wss://api.openai.com/v1/realtime` with
G.711 u-law (`g711_ulaw` / `audio/pcmu`) audio. For an `openai` API-key
profile, the Gateway mints an ephemeral Realtime transcription client
secret before opening the WebSocket. This streaming provider is for Voice
Call's realtime transcription path; Discord voice currently records short
segments and uses the batch `tools.media.audio` transcription path
instead.
The bundled `openai` plugin registers realtime voice for the Voice Call
plugin.
| Setting | Config path | Default |
| --------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- | ---------------------- |
| Model | `plugins.entries.voice-call.config.realtime.providers.openai.model` | `gpt-realtime-2.1` |
| Voice | `...openai.voice` | `alloy` |
| Temperature (Azure deployment bridge) | `...openai.temperature` | `0.8` |
| VAD threshold | `...openai.vadThreshold` | `0.5` |
| Silence duration | `...openai.silenceDurationMs` | `500` |
| Prefix padding | `...openai.prefixPaddingMs` | `300` |
| Reasoning effort | `...openai.reasoningEffort` | (unset) |
| Auth | `openai` auth profile, `...openai.apiKey`, or `OPENAI_API_KEY` | Platform API key; ChatGPT OAuth for browser and Gateway-relay GPT-Live |
Available built-in Realtime voices for `gpt-realtime-2.1`: `alloy`, `ash`,
`ballad`, `coral`, `echo`, `sage`, `shimmer`, `verse`, `marin`, `cedar`.
OpenAI recommends `marin` and `cedar` for the best Realtime quality. This
is a separate set from the Text-to-speech voices above; a TTS-only voice
such as `fable`, `nova`, or `onyx` is not valid for Realtime sessions.
Set the model explicitly to `gpt-realtime-2.1-mini` when you prefer the
smaller, lower-cost Realtime 2.1 variant.
#### Gateway-controlled Realtime call cleanup
Closing a Gateway-controlled GA Realtime WebRTC session retires its Gateway
authority and closes the local sideband before asking OpenAI to hang up the
provider call. These are separate events; control closure does not establish
provider acknowledgment or recall already queued media.
If hangup fails, explicit cancellation or cleanup reports the failure. The
broker retries automatically after 1 second, then 5 seconds, with the existing
30-second timeout for each attempt. After all three attempts fail, the log
reports `cleanup INCOMPLETE`. The exact cleanup obligation and its capacity
remain reserved, including across plugin replacement: eight sessions globally
and two per Gateway client. Restore provider connectivity; a later OpenAI
broker/plugin runtime cleanup can retry these retained calls. Repeating End
or `talk.client.close` is not that retry boundary because the Gateway session
may already be retired.
Cleanup obligations are in memory only. Gateway exit, crash, or restart can
lose them; restarting is not proof that the provider call ended. The
adapter's 30-minute active-session lease is not a remote-lifetime guarantee
or a fallback after failed hangup.
#### GA Realtime browser Talk over ChatGPT OAuth
Browser Talk can use `gpt-realtime-2.1`, `gpt-realtime-2.1-mini`, or
`gpt-realtime-2` with either Platform API-key auth or an OpenClaw ChatGPT
OAuth subscription profile. Platform auth keeps precedence in this order:
the configured realtime key, an `openai` API-key profile, then
`OPENAI_API_KEY`. When none is configured, the Gateway falls back to the
ChatGPT OAuth profile created by
`openclaw models auth login --provider openai`.
The enabled OpenAI plugin starts its browser session broker automatically,
including when you sign in after the Gateway has started. No separate Talk
provider configuration or Platform API key is required for this browser
path. The broker opens a provider session only when you start Talk; signing
in does not open the microphone or start a voice session. Returning to the
browser after sign-in refreshes the chat microphone's readiness.
The two browser paths expose the same Talk session contract but keep
credentials on different sides of the trust boundary. Platform auth mints
an ephemeral client secret and the browser exchanges SDP directly with
OpenAI. OAuth auth stays in the Gateway: the existing single-use offer
broker sends multipart `sdp` plus the canonical browser `session` policy
to `/v1/realtime/calls` and returns only the answer SDP. The OAuth token
never reaches the browser. A configured Platform credential
that cannot be resolved still fails closed; repair or remove that source
before OAuth fallback can apply.
This GA OAuth fallback is browser-only. iOS client-owned WebRTC, Voice
Call, Gateway relay, provider WebSocket transports, Discord realtime voice,
and other backend GA Realtime bridges remain Platform-key-only.
#### GPT-Live transport paths
GPT-Live is supported for browser Talk and Gateway-owned `gateway-relay`
Talk using ChatGPT OAuth or an enrolled Platform API key. ChatGPT OAuth
creates the call through the Codex backend using JSON `sdp` and `session`;
Platform API keys use multipart call creation at `/v1/live`. Both attach
the Gateway-owned sideband at `wss://api.openai.com/v1/live/`.
The Gateway relay keeps media, credentials, and sideband control on the Gateway. Discord
and Voice Call use the Frameless Bidi
`wss://api.openai.com/v1/live?model=...` endpoint with Platform API-key auth.
Use `gpt-live-1-codex`. The values `gpt-live-1` and
`gpt-live-1-mini` are not valid on this route. Opt in explicitly with
`talk.realtime.model`; `gpt-realtime-2.1` remains the GA default.
GPT-Live follows the Codex V3 voice contract: `arbor`, `breeze`, `cove`,
`ember`, `juniper`, `maple`, `sol`, `spruce`, and `vale`. OpenClaw defaults
to `cove` and maps unsupported configured voices back to it. These are
separate from GA Realtime voices; `marin` and `cedar` are GA choices.
Current speech-roundtrip verification covers ChatGPT OAuth with `spruce`;
Platform GPT-Live uses the same Codex V3 voice contract, but its live
verification requires an account with API access.
Browser WebRTC prerequisites, in order:
1. A ChatGPT OAuth auth profile: `openclaw models auth login --provider openai`.
An existing Codex CLI (`~/.codex`) sign-in is **not** read; the profile
must exist in OpenClaw. A Platform API key with `/v1/live` access works
instead, but that access is waitlist-gated.
2. `talk.realtime.model` set to a `gpt-live-*` value — via **Settings →
Talk** in the Control UI or the config below.
3. The bundled `openai` plugin registered in full mode. A restrictive
`plugins.allow` list fails with "OpenAI GPT-Live browser session broker
is unavailable".
GPT-Live prefers the ChatGPT OAuth profile even when a Platform key is
configured. If no OAuth profile is available, an unresolved configured
Platform key must be repaired or removed before another credential can be used.
```json5
{
talk: {
realtime: {
provider: "openai",
model: "gpt-live-1-codex",
transport: "webrtc",
},
},
}
```
For the Gateway-owned WebRTC path, select Gateway relay. It prefers the
OpenClaw ChatGPT OAuth profile and falls back to an enrolled Platform key
from `talk.realtime.providers.openai.apiKey`, an `openai` API-key profile,
or `OPENAI_API_KEY`:
```json5
{
talk: {
realtime: {
provider: "openai",
model: "gpt-live-1-codex",
transport: "gateway-relay",
},
},
}
```
Browser Talk uses `transport: "webrtc"`.
| Consumer | GPT-Live status |
| --- | --- |
| Browser Talk | Supported with client WebRTC and Gateway-owned sideband |
| Gateway-relay Talk | Supported with Gateway-owned WebRTC and sideband |
| Discord bidirectional voice | Supported with the Platform-key backend WebSocket |
| Voice Call and telephony | Supported with the Platform-key backend WebSocket |
| iOS client-owned Talk | Implemented; GPT-Live device live verification pending |
| Android realtime Talk | Pending an Android device live-proof flip; Android stays on native Talk |
These rows describe implemented transports, not account entitlement or
complete model capability parity. See the [Discord voice policy limits](/channels/discord#voice-channels)
and [Voice Call tool limits](/plugins/voice-call#realtime-voice-conversations) before
selecting GPT-Live for those consumers.
Platform API-key access to `/v1/live` is waitlist-gated and commonly returns
`400 model_not_found` without enrollment. Use a ChatGPT OAuth profile, or request Platform access with the
[GPT-Live API access form](https://openai.com/form/gpt-live-1-in-the-api/).
A `403 Voice session access denied` response is overloaded and does not by
itself prove an account entitlement problem: an invalid voice produces the
same response. First verify the model and voice against the accepted lists
above, then verify that the selected ChatGPT OAuth profile and
`chatgpt-account-id` belong to the same account.
The Gateway-owned WebRTC route routes sideband delegations through the
configured OpenClaw agent and keeps OAuth or Platform credentials away from
relay clients. The direct WebSocket bridge enables Discord voice and Voice
Call/telephony with Platform auth; OpenClaw converts G.711 u-law telephony
audio to and from GPT-Live's 24 kHz PCM stream. Android's client-side gate
stays closed until the Gateway relay path has live proof from an Android
device.
The WebRTC path creates a call on `api.openai.com/v1/live` and joins its
sideband there. The backend path opens `/v1/live?model=...`, sends a
Frameless `session.update`, then carries PCM audio, transcripts,
delegations, and delegation results over that one socket. The legacy
`chatgpt.com` backend route returns `403` and is not used.
Maintainers can exercise OpenClaw's complete OAuth path with the opt-in
live test. It skips when no ChatGPT OAuth credential is available and
never prints token material:
```bash
OPENCLAW_LIVE_TEST=1 OPENCLAW_LIVE_GPT_LIVE=1 node --import tsx scripts/test-live.mts -- extensions/openai/realtime-quicksilver.live.test.ts
OPENCLAW_LIVE_TEST=1 OPENCLAW_LIVE_GPT_LIVE=1 node --import tsx scripts/test-live.mts -- extensions/openai/realtime-quicksilver-gateway-bridge.live.test.ts
```
GA backend OpenAI realtime bridges use the Realtime WebSocket session
shape, which does not accept `session.temperature`; GPT-Live uses the
separate Frameless Bidi shape. Azure OpenAI
deployments remain available via `azureEndpoint` and `azureDeployment` and
keep the deployment-compatible session shape (including `temperature`).
Supports bidirectional tool calling and G.711 u-law audio.
Realtime voice is selected when the session is created. OpenAI allows most
session fields to change later, but the voice cannot be changed after the
model has emitted audio in that session. OpenClaw currently exposes the
built-in Realtime voice ids as strings.
Control UI Talk uses OpenAI browser WebRTC sessions. GA
`gpt-realtime-*` models use a Gateway-minted ephemeral client secret and a
direct browser SDP exchange when Platform credentials are available.
Configured realtime keys, API-key profiles, and `OPENAI_API_KEY` use that
path in that order. With no Platform credential, GA browser Talk uses the
same Gateway offer broker as GPT-Live so ChatGPT OAuth remains server-side.
GPT-Live prefers ChatGPT OAuth when both auth modes are configured and
falls back to Platform API-key access when the account has waitlist-gated
`/v1/live` access.
GA Gateway relay and Voice Call backend realtime WebSocket bridges require
Platform credentials. GPT-Live Gateway relay instead uses Gateway-owned
WebRTC, preferring ChatGPT OAuth and falling back to waitlist-enabled
Platform access; Voice Call GPT-Live uses the Platform-key backend WebSocket.
Maintainer live verification is available with
`OPENAI_API_KEY=... GEMINI_API_KEY=... node --import tsx scripts/dev/realtime-talk-live-smoke.ts`;
the OpenAI legs verify the backend WebSocket bridge, a synthesized PCM24
speech-to-response audio roundtrip, and the browser WebRTC SDP exchange
without logging secrets. Pass `--openai-only` to run those legs without
Google credentials. Use `--openai-audio-cycles 3` for a short repeated
connect, talkback, and close soak.
## Azure OpenAI endpoints
The bundled `openai` provider can target an Azure OpenAI resource for image
generation by overriding the base URL. On the image-generation path, OpenClaw
detects Azure hostnames on `models.providers.openai.baseUrl` and switches to
Azure's request shape automatically.
Realtime voice uses a separate configuration path
(`plugins.entries.voice-call.config.realtime.providers.openai.azureEndpoint`)
and is not affected by `models.providers.openai.baseUrl`. See the **Realtime
voice** accordion under [Voice and speech](#voice-and-speech) for its Azure
settings.
Use Azure OpenAI when:
- You already have an Azure OpenAI subscription, quota, or enterprise
agreement
- You need regional data residency or compliance controls Azure provides
- You want to keep traffic inside an existing Azure tenancy
### Configuration
For Azure image generation through the bundled `openai` provider, point
`models.providers.openai.baseUrl` at your Azure resource and set `apiKey` to
the Azure OpenAI key (not an OpenAI Platform key):
```json5
{
models: {
providers: {
openai: {
baseUrl: "https://.openai.azure.com",
apiKey: "",
},
},
},
}
```
OpenClaw recognizes these Azure host suffixes for the Azure image-generation
route:
- `*.openai.azure.com`
- `*.services.ai.azure.com`
- `*.cognitiveservices.azure.com`
For image-generation requests on a recognized Azure host, OpenClaw:
- Sends the `api-key` header instead of `Authorization: Bearer`
- Uses deployment-scoped paths (`/openai/deployments/{deployment}/...`)
- Appends `?api-version=...` to each request
- Uses a 600s default request timeout for Azure image-generation calls.
Per-call `timeoutMs` values still override this default.
Other base URLs (public OpenAI, OpenAI-compatible proxies) keep the standard
OpenAI image request shape.
Azure routing for the `openai` provider's image-generation path requires
OpenClaw 2026.4.22 or later. Earlier versions treat any custom
`openai.baseUrl` like the public OpenAI endpoint and fail against Azure image
deployments.
### API version
Set `AZURE_OPENAI_API_VERSION` to pin a specific Azure preview or GA version
for the Azure image-generation path:
```bash
export AZURE_OPENAI_API_VERSION="2024-12-01-preview"
```
The default is `2024-12-01-preview` when the variable is unset.
### Model names are deployment names
Azure OpenAI binds models to deployments. For Azure image-generation requests
routed through the bundled `openai` provider, the `model` field in OpenClaw
must be the **Azure deployment name** you configured in the Azure portal, not
the public OpenAI model id.
If you create a deployment called `gpt-image-2-prod` that serves `gpt-image-2`:
```
/tool image_generate model=openai/gpt-image-2-prod prompt="A clean poster" size=1024x1024 count=1
```
The same deployment-name rule applies to any image-generation call routed
through the bundled `openai` provider.
### Regional availability
Azure image generation is currently available only in a subset of regions
(for example `eastus2`, `swedencentral`, `polandcentral`, `westus3`,
`uaenorth`). Check Microsoft's current region list before creating a
deployment, and confirm the specific model is offered in your region.
### Parameter differences
Azure OpenAI and public OpenAI do not always accept the same image parameters.
Azure may reject options public OpenAI allows (for example certain
`background` values on `gpt-image-2`) or expose them only on specific model
versions. These differences come from Azure and the underlying model, not
OpenClaw. If an Azure request fails with a validation error, check the
parameter set supported by your specific deployment and API version in the
Azure portal.
Azure OpenAI uses native transport and compat behavior but does not receive
OpenClaw's hidden attribution headers - see the **Native vs OpenAI-compatible
routes** accordion under [Advanced configuration](#advanced-configuration).
For chat or Responses traffic on Azure (beyond image generation), use the
onboarding flow or a dedicated Azure provider config; `openai.baseUrl` alone
does not pick up the Azure API/auth shape. A separate
`azure-openai-responses/*` provider exists; see the Server-side compaction
accordion below.
## Advanced configuration
The `transport` and `serviceTier` examples below are authored embedded-provider
request settings, so an otherwise eligible `auto` route stays on OpenClaw
instead of selecting Codex implicitly. Valid `fastMode` / `fast_mode` values
and valid cutoff keys are typed agent-runtime controls and do not select a
runtime. Runtime-specific examples therefore pin `agentRuntime.id` explicitly.
The native Codex app-server harness owns its transport and request settings.
Authored embedded-provider settings can therefore select the declared OpenClaw
fallback even with explicit `agentRuntime.id: "codex"`; see
[Runtime selection](/concepts/agent-runtimes#runtime-selection).
Direct API-key requests use SSE by default. Set `params.transport` when you
want Responses WebSocket mode on an eligible official OpenAI endpoint.
| Value | Behavior |
| --------------------- | -------- |
| `"sse"` (default) | Stream each request over SSE |
| `"auto"` | Prefer a session-cached WebSocket, with pre-dispatch SSE fallback |
| `"websocket-cached"` | Explicitly use the session-cached WebSocket path, with the same pre-dispatch SSE fallback |
| `"websocket"` | Use a transient WebSocket for the request, with pre-dispatch SSE fallback |
Cached modes keep one eligible connection per session. When the prior
request and response still match the current history, OpenClaw sends only
the new input and references the prior response with
`previous_response_id`. Otherwise it sends full history without that
reference.
A setup or handshake failure before request dispatch falls back to SSE; it
is not retried or reconnected first. After dispatch, failures with an
unknown outcome remain replay-unsafe and fail closed. The explicit server
rejections `previous_response_not_found` and
`websocket_connection_limit_reached` are safe exceptions: OpenClaw closes
the failed socket and retries that turn once over SSE with full history and
no rejected `previous_response_id`.
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
models: {
"openai/gpt-5.5": {
agentRuntime: { id: "openclaw" },
params: { transport: "auto" },
},
},
},
},
}
```
Related OpenAI docs:
- [Responses API WebSocket mode](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/guides/websocket-mode)
- [Streaming API responses (SSE)](https://platform.openai.com/docs/guides/streaming-responses)
OpenClaw exposes a shared fast-mode toggle for `openai/*`:
- **Chat/UI:** `/fast status|auto|on|off`
- **Config:** `agents.defaults.models["/"].params.fastMode`
Valid `params.fastMode` / `params.fast_mode` values and valid cutoff keys
are typed runtime controls. They do not count as authored provider request
params and do not select OpenClaw or Codex. The example below pins embedded
OpenClaw because it describes a direct provider request.
When enabled on the embedded runtime, OpenClaw maps fast mode to OpenAI API
Fast mode (formerly Priority processing) and currently sends
`service_tier = "priority"`. Fast mode does not rewrite `reasoning` or
`text.verbosity`. `fastMode: "auto"` starts new model calls fast until the
auto cutoff, then starts later retry, fallback, tool-result, or continuation
calls without fast mode. The cutoff defaults to 60 seconds; set
`params.fastAutoOnSeconds` on the active model to change it.
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
models: {
"openai/gpt-5.5": {
agentRuntime: { id: "openclaw" },
params: { fastMode: "auto", fastAutoOnSeconds: 30 },
},
},
},
},
}
```
The full precedence is inline message, stored session, per-agent default,
global default, per-model `params.fastMode`, then off. `/fast default`
clears only the session layer. `/status` reports the resolved OpenClaw
policy and runtime, not the upstream service tier actually honored or
returned. See [Thinking levels](/tools/thinking#fast-mode-%2Ffast) and
[Codex harness](/plugins/codex-harness#shared-fast-mode-and-codex-fast-mode).
Fast mode is premium-priced and model-specific. GPT-5.6 Sol API Fast mode
currently costs 2× Standard token pricing, with long-context multipliers
stacking as described above. ChatGPT/Codex-credit Fast mode is a separate
billing system: GPT-5.6 and GPT-5.5 currently consume 2.5× Standard credits,
while API-key Codex runs use API token pricing. See
[Fast mode](https://openai.com/api-priority-processing/),
[API pricing](https://developers.openai.com/api/docs/pricing), and
[Codex speed](https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/agent-configuration/speed).
OpenAI now calls this API product Fast mode; it was formerly Priority
processing. OpenClaw currently sends the wire value
`service_tier = "priority"`. Set an explicit tier per
model on the embedded OpenClaw runtime:
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
models: {
"openai/gpt-5.5": {
agentRuntime: { id: "openclaw" },
params: { serviceTier: "priority" },
},
},
},
},
}
```
Supported values: `auto`, `default`, `flex`, `priority`.
`params.serviceTier` is an authored embedded-provider setting, not native
Codex app-server configuration. It is forwarded only by the embedded
runtime to native OpenAI endpoints (`api.openai.com`) and native ChatGPT
endpoints (`chatgpt.com/backend-api`). If you route either provider through
a proxy, OpenClaw leaves `service_tier` untouched. Configure the native
harness separately with `plugins.entries.codex.config.appServer.serviceTier`;
the shared Fast-mode run control can supersede that value.
For store-capable direct OpenAI Responses models (`openai/*` resolved to
`api.openai.com`), the OpenAI plugin's OpenClaw stream wrapper auto-enables
server-side compaction:
- Forces `store: true` (unless model compat sets `supportsStore: false`)
- Injects `context_management: [{ type: "compaction", compact_threshold: ... }]`
- Default `compact_threshold`: 70% of `contextWindow` (or `80000` when
unavailable)
The same resolved route and effective threshold gate the client preflight,
so OpenClaw does not delay local compaction unless the transport will inject
`context_management`. ChatGPT OAuth, custom proxies, and routes with
`compat.supportsStore: false` are not store-capable and therefore ignore
these server-compaction controls. This applies to the built-in OpenClaw
runtime path and to OpenAI provider hooks used by embedded runs. The native
Codex app-server harness manages its own context through Codex and is not
affected by this setting.
OpenAI emits the compacted state as an encrypted `compaction` output item.
Keep that item opaque. For stateless continuation, carry the newest item
forward and drop the earlier input prefix it replaces. OpenClaw does this
automatically: it persists and replays the item only for the matching
route, session, and auth identity, preserves it across worker transcript
commits, and filters it from user-visible history and diagnostics. Never
display or log the encrypted content.
Useful for store-capable endpoints like Azure OpenAI Responses. Setting
this to `true` does not override endpoint or `supportsStore` capability:
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
models: {
"azure-openai-responses/gpt-5.5": {
params: { responsesServerCompaction: true },
},
},
},
},
}
```
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
models: {
"openai/gpt-5.5": {
params: {
responsesServerCompaction: true,
responsesCompactThreshold: 120000,
},
},
},
},
},
}
```
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
models: {
"openai/gpt-5.5": {
params: { responsesServerCompaction: false },
},
},
},
},
}
```
`responsesServerCompaction` only controls `context_management` injection.
Direct OpenAI Responses models still force `store: true` unless compat
sets `supportsStore: false`.
For `openai` provider GPT-5-family models run through OpenClaw's embedded
runtime, OpenClaw already defaults to a stricter execution contract called
`strict-agentic`. It auto-activates whenever the resolved provider is
`openai` and the model id matches the GPT-5 family, unless config
explicitly opts back out:
```json5
{
agents: {
defaults: {
embeddedAgent: { executionContract: "default" },
},
},
}
```
Setting `"strict-agentic"` explicitly is a no-op on a supported lane (it
is already the default) and inert on unsupported provider/model pairs.
With `strict-agentic` active, OpenClaw:
- Makes `progress_card` available for substantial work unless `tools.updatePlan` disables it
- Retries structurally empty or reasoning-only turns with a visible-answer
continuation
- Uses explicit harness plan events when the selected harness provides
them
OpenClaw does not classify assistant prose to decide whether a turn is a
plan, progress update, or final answer.
This contract lives entirely in OpenClaw's embedded agent runner. It does
not apply to the native Codex app-server harness, which manages its own
turn and plan behavior; the harness selection matters more than the
execution-contract setting for native Codex runs.
OpenClaw treats direct OpenAI, Codex, and Azure OpenAI endpoints
differently from generic OpenAI-compatible `/v1` proxies:
**Native routes** (`openai/*`, Azure OpenAI):
- Keep `reasoning: { effort: "none" }` only for models that support the
OpenAI `none` effort
- Omit disabled reasoning for models or proxies that reject
`reasoning.effort: "none"`
- Default tool schemas to strict mode
- Attach hidden attribution headers on verified native hosts only (Azure
OpenAI does not get these headers, even though it is a native route)
- Keep OpenAI-only request shaping (`service_tier`, `store`,
reasoning-compat, prompt-cache hints)
**Proxy/compatible routes:**
- Use looser compat behavior
- Strip Completions `store` from non-native `openai-completions` payloads
- Accept advanced `params.extra_body`/`params.extraBody` pass-through JSON
for OpenAI-compatible Completions proxies
- Accept `params.chat_template_kwargs` for OpenAI-compatible Completions
proxies such as vLLM
- Do not force strict tool schemas or native-only headers
## Related
Choosing providers, model refs, and failover behavior.
Shared image tool parameters and provider selection.
Shared video tool parameters and provider selection.
Auth details and credential reuse rules.