OpenAI Codex can now control your computer and generate images

OpenAI has updated its Codex desktop app with computer control, an in-app browser, image generation, automation memory, and plugin support in January 2025. As reported by ZDNet, the update targets the app's 3 million weekly users, nearly half of whom already use Codex for non-coding tasks.

What are the new features in the OpenAI Codex desktop app update?

The OpenAI Codex desktop app update introduces five major features that transform it from a coding tool into a comprehensive automation platform. Computer control lets the app interact directly with your desktop, clicking buttons and navigating menus automatically.

The in-app browser eliminates the need to switch between applications when researching or gathering web content. Image generation capabilities bring AI-powered visual creation directly to the desktop environment.

Automation memory allows the app to remember previous tasks and user preferences, making repeated actions more efficient. Plugin support opens the ecosystem to third-party developers, similar to how Anthropic's AI marketplace has expanded functionality for Claude.

How computer control changes desktop automation

According to ZDNet, the computer control feature represents the most notable update in the update. This functionality allows Codex to perform direct system interactions without requiring users to manually execute each step.

The feature can automate repetitive tasks like file organisation, application switching, and data entry across multiple programs. For UAE businesses dealing with administrative workflows, this could reduce manual processing time significantly.

The automation extends beyond simple clicking to understanding context and adapting to different software interfaces. This positions Codex alongside other AI agents gaining traction in 2025 for workplace automation.

Who benefits from the expanded capabilities?

The update acknowledges that nearly half of Codex's 3 million weekly users already employ the app for non-coding tasks. Creative professionals can now generate images without switching to separate tools like Midjourney or DALL-E.

Business users gain automation capabilities for routine computer tasks, whilst developers benefit from enhanced workflow integration. The in-app browser particularly helps researchers and content creators who need to gather information without breaking their workflow.

This broader appeal follows the trend seen with tools like Apple's AI-enhanced Xcode, where coding tools increasingly serve wider professional audiences. The plugin ecosystem could attract UAE developers looking to create region-specific automation tools.

What this means for desktop AI tools

This update signals OpenAI's strategy to compete beyond coding assistance into general desktop automation. The timing coincides with increased competition from companies like Anthropic building AI agent development tools.

For UAE tech professionals, the automation memory feature targets environments with repetitive workflows. The ability to remember user preferences and past actions reduces the learning curve for complex automation tasks.

The update also reflects the growing demand for AI tools that integrate seamlessly with existing desktop environments rather than requiring separate applications for each function.

Availability and access

The OpenAI Codex desktop app update is rolling out to existing users globally, including the UAE. No specific regional pricing changes or UAE-exclusive features have been announced with this update.

Users can access the new features through the standard Codex desktop application. Plugin support will depend on third-party developer adoption and may vary by region based on local software preferences and business needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the new features in the OpenAI Codex desktop app update?

The update introduces computer control, an in-app browser, image generation capabilities, automation memory, and plugin support. These features transform Codex from a coding tool into a comprehensive desktop automation platform.

How many weekly users does OpenAI Codex have?

OpenAI Codex has 3 million weekly users. Nearly half of these users already employ the app for non-coding tasks, demonstrating its versatility beyond software development.

Is OpenAI Codex only used for coding tasks?

No, nearly half of OpenAI Codex's 3 million weekly users utilise the app for non-coding tasks. The latest update further expands these capabilities with automation and creative features.

When is the OpenAI Codex desktop app update available?

The update is rolling out to existing Codex desktop users globally in January 2025, including users in the UAE. No specific regional release dates have been announced.

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