OpenAI's Codex Desktop can run your computer now - and has its own browser

Image: OpenAI

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ZDNET's key takeaways

Codex Desktop expands from coding into full productivity workflows.

Automation can generate images, charts, and workflow outputs.

The tool is still aimed at developers despite the broader productivity push.

Today, OpenAI announced a significant update to its Codex Desktop app. Codex started as OpenAI's agentic coding tool, but Codex Desktop is now being positioned as an overall productivity tool, similar to Claude Cowork.

While the capabilities are undoubtedly powerful, the messaging is a little murky. In a briefing yesterday, OpenAI recognized that Codex Desktop is still targeted at programmers but includes additional productivity tools that go beyond code generation.

Also: 7 AI coding techniques I use to ship real, reliable products - fast

I quite enjoy OpenAI briefings because the excitement from the folks building the AI is tangible and genuine. They give off a "Check out what we did" vibe that's refreshing among all the corporate speak we get from AI vendors every day.

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