The key difference is that Codex no longer operates by 'taking complete control of the browser' like many previous AI computer-use systems. Instead, through a new Chrome extension, Codex can leverage users' existing login sessions to interact with websites and web apps more naturally.
This feature allows the Codex to handle many tasks directly in the browser, such as navigating websites, filling out forms, checking dashboards, debugging browser flow, or working with multiple Chrome tabs simultaneously.
How does the Codex Chrome Extension work?
Previously, many AI agents wanting to interact with the web had to control the browser like a virtual machine. This method was quite slow and sometimes frustrating because the AI practically "took over" the user's browser.
With the new extension, Codex can directly access existing login sessions on Chrome. This means AI can work with services like Gmail, LinkedIn, Salesforce, or many other enterprise web apps without requiring users to log in repeatedly.
Another notable feature is that the Codex can run on multiple Chrome tabs in the background. Tasks related to the same thread are grouped into Chrome Tab Groups for easier user management.
How to install and use the Codex on Chrome
To use the new feature, users first need to install the Codex plugin from the Chrome Web Store.
After installation:
- Open the Codex application.
- Access the Plugins section.
- Select Chrome integration settings.
- Accept the access permissions that Chrome requests.
Once complete, open Chrome and check if the Codex extension shows a 'connected' status. If the extension is successfully connected, Codex should be able to start working directly in the browser.
Decide which tool is most suitable to use.
For example, if you need to access a website that's already logged in, like Salesforce or Gmail, the Codex will prioritize Chrome. However, if working with localhost or a development environment, the system might switch to the browser built into the app.
Users can also launch Chrome directly from the prompt. For example:
@Chrome open Salesforce and update the account from these call notes
If Chrome isn't open, the Codex can even launch the browser on its own.
According to OpenAI, the new extension helps Codex handle many real-world browser-based tasks much better. AI can assist with CRM data import, analytics dashboard review, internal enterprise system operations, or debugging web workflows.
Additionally, the Codex also supports working with localhost, development servers, and preview files, which is especially useful for developers or teams building web applications.
The key point is that this entire process takes place directly within the user's actual Chrome browser, rather than in a simulated environment. This results in significantly faster operation and a more natural user experience.
According to OpenAI, the Codex Chrome extension is now available on Windows and macOS through the Codex app.
The feature is currently being rolled out in most regions of the world, with the exception of the EU and the UK. OpenAI says support for these regions will be added soon.
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