ModelRefs / Parallel Tool Calls — AI Glossary

Parallel Tool Calls — AI Glossary

Executing multiple independent tool calls in a single model turn, reducing multi-step agent latency. Reduces round-trips by N-1 for N parallel operations.

Overview

Modern APIs (OpenAI, Anthropic, Gemini) support parallel tool calls: the model emits multiple tool_call objects in one response when operations are independent. The caller executes them in parallel and returns all results in one message. Reduces round-trips by N-1 for N parallel operations. Essential for research agents issuing multiple concurrent searches.

Reference details

Topicagents
Last reviewed2026-06-24

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Frequently asked questions

What is Parallel Tool Calls?

Executing multiple independent tool calls in a single model turn, reducing multi-step agent latency.

What concepts are related to Parallel Tool Calls?

Closely related concepts include tool selection, parallel execution, tool use.