OpenAI releases a new desktop app for its Codex AI coding assistant in February 2026.
The macOS app acts as a command center for developers. It allows users to run multiple AI agents concurrently on large projects. This tool changes how coders work with AI.
Codex Desktop App Launch: Key Features of Codex Desktop App
The app moves Codex from browser and command line to a full desktop experience. Developers organize agents by project. Each agent works on its own copy of the code.
This avoids conflicts. The app includes special features for better workflow.
- Runs multiple AI coding agents in parallel
- Uses worktrees for safe multi-agent editing
- Adds “Skills” for tools like Figma, Linear, Cloudflare, Vercel
- Schedules background automations (issue triage, bug detection)
- Builds projects from single prompts (e.g., Mario Kart-style game demo)
- Available to ChatGPT Plus, Pro, Business, Enterprise, Edu users
- Free and Go users get temporary access with doubled rate limits
OpenAI says this is their most loved internal tool. CEO Sam Altman calls it amazing for daily use at the company.
Also read about: OpenAI Codex Limits Boosted Through New Year for Better Use
Competition and Availability
The launch comes during strong competition. Anthropic’s Claude Code gains popularity. An Andreessen Horowitz survey shows Anthropic leads in enterprise use (44%).
OpenAI reports that over one million developers used Codex last month. Usage doubled since GPT-5.2-Codex in December 2025.
The Codex app now works on macOS. OpenAI plans a Windows version soon. Cloud triggers for background tasks come later. Developers test it for long tasks. The app helps build fast and explore ideas.
Comparison Table: AI Coding Tools (2026)
| Tool | Desktop App? | Parallel Agents? | Price (Monthly) | Best For |
| OpenAI Codex | Yes (macOS) | Yes | $20+ | Multi-agent projects |
| Claude Code | No | Limited | $20+ | Reasoning & explanations |
| GitHub Copilot | No | No | $10–$39 | Inline suggestions |
| Cursor | Yes | Yes | $20 | Full codebase work |
The Codex desktop app gives OpenAI a strong edge in agentic coding. Developers now handle complex tasks faster. The tool grows popular fast in 2026.
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