OpenAI has released a significant update for Codex, adding features such as computer usage, in-app browser, image generation, memory, expanded automations, and over 90 new plugins in the background.

The update is currently being rolled out to users of the Codex desktop application who have logged into ChatGPT on macOS. Computer usage and personalization options for Enterprise and Education accounts are expected to be available soon for users in the EU and the UK.

Codex Computer Usage and Built-in Browser on Mac

Codex now has the ability to run applications on a Mac by seeing, clicking, and typing with its own cursor, without needing API integration. Multiple agents can work simultaneously without interrupting the user’s ongoing tasks. OpenAI notes that this feature is useful for testing front-end changes, evaluating applications, and working with tools that do not offer APIs.

The Codex application now includes a built-in browser that allows users to comment directly on web pages and provides the ability to give the agent specific instructions. Currently, this tool is designed for front-end and game development on the local network. OpenAI has also announced plans to eventually expand browser control beyond just local web applications.

New Image Tools, Memory, and Automation Powers

Codex now has the capability to generate and enhance images using gpt-image-1.5, with screenshot and code integration. This feature can be used to create product concept visuals, design front-end drafts, and develop game assets within the same workflow.

A memory preview helps Codex remember context from previous sessions; it includes personal preferences, corrections, and important time-consuming information. The purpose of memory is to allow for faster adjustments to repetitive tasks and to improve output quality without requiring detailed custom instructions.

Automations have also been expanded, allowing for the reuse of existing conversation threads. Codex can now autonomously plan future tasks and restart long-running tasks automatically, even over multiple days or weeks.

According to OpenAI, teams are using automations to manage open-ended requests, track tasks, and monitor activities via Slack, Gmail, and Notion. Additionally, Codex now proactively offers work suggestions based on the project context, connected plugins, and memory. This includes identifying open comments in Google Docs, pulling relevant information from connected tools, and providing a prioritized action list.

Developer Workflow Improvements and Over 90 Codex Plugins

The application now allows users to respond directly to GitHub review comments, run multiple terminal tabs simultaneously, and connect to remote devboxes via SSH in the alpha version. Files, PDFs, spreadsheets, slides, and documents can be opened directly from the side menu with detailed previews. A new summary panel provides an overview of the agent's plans, resources, and documents.

Over 90 additional plugins have been added, and support has been expanded for skills, app integrations, and MCP servers. New plugins include Atlassian Rovo for Jira management, CircleCI, CodeRabbit, GitLab Issues, Microsoft Suite, Neon by Databricks, Remotion, Render, and Superpowers.