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

From coding tool to productivity powerhouse, Codex Desktop adds computer control, automation memory, and plugin support. But can it replace traditional software?

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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.

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