OpenAI Revamps Codex with Agentic AI Features to Take on Anthropic
The tool can deploy multiple AI agents simultaneously, allowing them to run in parallel on Mac systems without interrupting the user’s ongoing work.
OpenAI has announced a major overhaul of its AI coding tool Codex, introducing a range of new “agentic” capabilities designed to automate more complex development and workplace tasks.
The update comes as competition intensifies between OpenAI and rival Anthropic, whose Claude Code platform has gained traction among enterprises. With this release, OpenAI is aiming to reclaim ground in the fast-evolving AI coding space.
One of the most significant additions enables Codex to operate in the background on a user’s computer, using a cursor to click, type, and execute tasks autonomously.
"Multiple agents can work on your Mac in parallel, without interfering with your own work in other apps. For developers, this is helpful for iterating on frontend changes, testing apps, or working in apps that don’t expose an API," OpenAI said.
Because Codex functions independently in the background, users can continue their regular workflows while the system handles auxiliary tasks. OpenAI said this includes activities such as iterating on frontend changes, testing applications, and interacting with software that lacks API access.
The upgrade effectively transforms Codex from a coding assistant into a broader productivity tool capable of supporting a range of enterprise functions. Several features mirror recent updates from Anthropic, including remote computer control and automation while users are away from their devices.
OpenAI has also introduced an in-app browser, enabling Codex to carry out web-based tasks, particularly for frontend and game development. A preview of a new “memory” feature allows the system to recall past sessions and adapt to user workflows over time.
Additional enhancements include image generation capabilities for design assets and presentations, along with more than 90 plugin integrations across tools such as GitLab, Slack, and Google Calendar.
The company also unveiled a pay-as-you-go pricing option for ChatGPT Enterprise and Business users, offering greater flexibility in accessing Codex’s capabilities.
Earlier this year, OpenAI unveiled the Codex App to help developers write, edit and explore code more efficiently across mobile and desktop devices.
