OpenAI brings vibe coding to Macs with standalone Codex app
What's the story
OpenAI has launched a dedicated Mac app for its AI coding agent, Codex. The new app is different from the general-purpose ChatGPT app and serves as a "command center" to manage multiple coding agents across projects. It also allows users to supervise these agents over longer periods of work. The move comes as part of OpenAI's strategy to take on competitors like Anthropic and Cursor in the developer space.
AI evolution
Codex can now handle complex multi-agent tasks
OpenAI co-founder and CEO Sam Altman, in a recent briefing, said there has been a major shift in software agents with models like Codex. He noted that these models are now capable of performing extremely complex tasks. The new Mac app is aimed at overcoming the limitations of existing interfaces and expanding Codex's capabilities from single-agent coding operations to multi-agent software lifecycles.
User growth
Codex is already being used by major companies
Altman also revealed that GPT-5.2-Codex is the fastest adopted model ever developed by OpenAI, with usage skyrocketing more than 20 times since last August. The company has reported a diverse user base for this tool, including independent developers and major companies like Cisco, Ramp, Virgin Atlantic, Vanta, Duolingo, and Gap.
App features
New app introduces skills for coding-adjacent tasks
The new Codex app is designed to run multiple tasks in parallel and help users supervise agents over longer end-to-end work. The company is also introducing skills, which will allow developers to define repeatable workflows like fetching logs and fixing tests. These skills will also cover coding-adjacent tasks such as summarizing threads and completing tickets.
Enhanced functionality
IDE extension launched alongside new plan mode
Along with the app, OpenAI has also announced a new plan mode for Codex. This will allow for read-only reviews (meaning the AI won't change your code) and selectable personalities. The company has also launched an IDE extension for use in JetBrains IDEs, expanding accessibility across different coding environments.
Security measures
Sandbox mode ensures safety when running AI locally
The new Mac app also comes with a sandbox mode and lets developers set approval levels. This is to ensure security when running an AI on a local computer, especially with write access. The tool has permissioned network access and remembers approvals over time, making it safer for users.