On April 16, 2026, OpenAI announced a major upgrade for its Codex coding tool, adding multiple features to enhance its control over desktop environments. This move is aimed at strengthening its competition with Anthropic in the AI coding tool space, as Anthropic’s Claude Code has already gained favor among enterprise users. The upgraded Codex enables a broader range of AI-assisted development applications.
Significantly Enhanced Desktop Control
The upgraded Codex can run in the background on a user’s computer, open any desktop application, and perform clicks and inputs using the cursor. It supports deploying multiple agents to work in parallel on a Mac without interfering with the user’s normal operations in other apps. These agents can act as coding assistants to complete supplementary tasks such as front-end UI iteration, application testing, and operating applications that do not expose an API.
New Browser and Image Generation Features
Codex now includes an in-app browser feature, allowing users to command an agent to perform actions on specific web applications. This is particularly useful for front-end and game development. OpenAI plans to expand its capabilities in the future, enabling Codex to fully control the browser, not just web apps on the local host. Additionally, Codex has added an image generation feature that can create product concept art, presentation slide visuals, mockups, and other corporate assets.
Memory Function and Plugin Ecosystem Expansion
The ‘Memory’ feature, currently in preview, can recall previous work sessions and generate important context about a user’s work habits. Furthermore, OpenAI has added 111 plugin integrations for Codex, supporting tools like CodeRabbit and GitLab Issues. For example, Codex can now view Slack channels and Google Calendar information to automatically generate a daily to-do list. For ChatGPT Enterprise and Business customers, OpenAI has also introduced a pay-as-you-go pricing option for Codex.
Market Competition and Availability
This upgrade is seen as OpenAI’s response to Anthropic. Last month, Anthropic’s Claude Code launched similar desktop control features and has been widely adopted by enterprises. OpenAI’s update began rolling out this week to Codex desktop app users subscribed to ChatGPT, aiming to accelerate efficiency across the entire software development lifecycle.
