OpenAI Updates Codex to Control macOS Apps
OpenAI has enhanced its Codex agentic coding and development tool with several new capabilities. The updates allow Codex to access and operate desktop applications on users' computers. This move comes during heightened competition with Anthropic, especially after strong performance from Claude Code. OpenAI appears to be directing more efforts toward matching that progress.
Desktop App Control on macOS
Codex can now run apps on your Mac without disrupting other activities. It operates in the background and supports multiple agents running at the same time. Developers benefit from this for tasks like testing frontend modifications, running applications, or using software without public APIs, according to OpenAI's announcement.
A demonstration shows Codex playing games such as Tic Tac Toe through desktop control. The rollout begins today for users of the Codex desktop app who log in via ChatGPT. Availability starts with macOS, and OpenAI has not shared dates for Windows or Linux support. Users in the European Union will gain access shortly.
OpenAI, founded in 2015 by Sam Altman and others, leads in AI models like GPT series and ChatGPT. Its agentic systems aim to handle complex tasks autonomously. Codex builds on this by focusing on coding and development workflows.
Image Generation and New Integrations
Codex now supports creating and refining images using the gpt-image-1.5 model. It includes fresh plug-ins for services like GitLab, Atlassian Rovo, and the Microsoft Suite. Users get native web browsing inside the app, complete with tools to annotate pages and give exact directives to the agent.
Stay ahead of the AI curve
The most important updates, news, and content — delivered weekly.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Task automation improves too. People can repurpose prior conversation threads. Codex can set up its own schedules, activate itself, and resume extended projects automatically.
Anthropic, started in 2021 by former OpenAI executives including Dario Amodei, released Claude models known for safety and coding prowess. Claude Code has gained attention for developer tools, prompting rivals like OpenAI to respond.
Memory Feature for Better Personalization
A new memory system lets Codex store details from previous interactions. It recalls user preferences, fixes, and hard-to-find data. This opt-in preview aims to speed up work and match results that once needed lengthy prompts.
OpenAI plans to release personalization to Enterprise, Education, and EU customers in the near future. Robert Hart, a London-based AI reporter who previously covered health, science, and tech at Forbes, reported on these developments.
These updates strengthen Codex as a comprehensive tool for coders. They address gaps in app interaction, creativity, browsing, and continuity. The focus on macOS first aligns with Apple's large developer base using Macs for software creation.