OpenAI targets Anthropic with Codex upgrade that expands desktop control

OpenAI is stepping up its fight with Anthropic in the race to dominate AI coding tools, rolling out a significantly upgraded version of Codex that pushes it closer to being an autonomous workplace assistant. The move comes as Anthropic’s Claude Code continues to gain traction among businesses, widely seen as the current frontrunner, according to a TechCrunch report.

Codex moves beyond coding assistant

The most notable shift is how Codex operates. It can now run in the background on a user’s computer, opening apps and performing actions with a cursor that clicks and types—effectively behaving like a digital co-worker.

This enables multiple AI agents to run simultaneously, working in parallel without disrupting the user’s own tasks. OpenAI positions this as a “coding buddy” that handles auxiliary work—iterating on front-end changes, testing applications, or navigating tools that lack APIs—while developers focus on higher-level problems.

Matching Anthropic feature-for-feature

The update also brings Codex closer to capabilities already showcased by Anthropic. Tools like Claude Code have demonstrated remote desktop control, allowing AI to act independently even when users are away.

OpenAI’s additions suggest a clear response: not just keeping pace, but embedding Codex deeper into day-to-day workflows. The new in-app browser, for instance, lets users issue commands that the agent executes across web apps, with plans to expand beyond local environments.

A key addition is a “memory” feature that allows Codex to recall previous sessions and adapt to how a user works over time. This signals a shift from reactive assistance to personalised, context-aware automation.

OpenAI is also expanding Codex’s utility through 111 plug-in integrations, including tools like CodeRabbit and GitLab Issues. The idea is straightforward: let the AI handle routine coordination. As TechCrunch notes, Codex could soon scan Slack messages and Google Calendar events to generate a daily to-do list—essentially taking over light clerical work.

The tool has also gained image-generation capabilities for creating mockups, slide visuals, and product concepts, extending its reach beyond pure coding tasks.

Enterprise focus sharpens

Alongside these features, OpenAI has introduced a pay-as-you-go pricing model for enterprise and business users, signalling a push towards flexibility and broader adoption.

Once dominant in consumer AI, OpenAI is increasingly prioritising enterprise use cases, even as it scales back projects like its social video experiment, Sora 2. The company is also navigating legal and reputational challenges tied to ChatGPT’s real-world impact.