OpenAI's coding assistance AI 'Codex' can now directly control Chrome.
OpenAI has released a Google Chrome extension for its AI agent,
Codex now works directly in Chrome on macOS and Windows.
— OpenAI (@OpenAI) May 7, 2026
It's even better at working with apps and sites in Chrome, and now works in parallel across tabs in the background without taking over your browser.
To get started, install the Chrome plugin in the Codex app. pic.twitter.com/pjtHd9gC69
Codex is a coding agent provided by OpenAI, and in April 2026, a major update was released that included features such as automated PC operation and image generation.
OpenAI significantly revamps its AI agent 'Codex,' adding features such as 'PC control,' 'direct instructions via browser,' and 'UI mockups through image generation' - GIGAZINE
Codex allowed PC control using its own cursor, enabling it to recognize and click or input commands from all applications on the PC, but it was initially released exclusively for macOS.
OpenAI released a Chrome extension for the Codex on May 8, 2026. By installing the extension, you can run it directly on Chrome on macOS and Windows.
Installing the extension further enhances integration with apps and sites within Chrome, allowing them to run in parallel in the background across tabs, so that Codex can perform tasks in parallel in background tabs without monopolizing browser operation. Additionally, tabs are grouped by task, and the active tab remains available for continued use.
According to OpenAI, the Codex Chrome extension expands what you can do for coding and business, from debugging browser flows to checking dashboards, conducting investigations, and updating CRMs. When a task requires multiple tools, Codex will process the task by switching between normal browser operations and dedicated plugins as needed.
As a security measure, OpenAI requires users to confirm access to new sites and employs a system that requires explicit authorization for highly sensitive operations. By default, the Codex prompts for confirmation every time a new site is opened, so it can be used without problems even if there are sites that you do not want the AI agent to access.
In March 2026, OpenAI released numerous Codex plugins that support services such as Gmail and Google Drive. OpenAI states that with the addition of extensive Chrome browser control capabilities, it will be able to handle even more tasks.
OpenAI announces plugin for its coding assistance AI tool 'Codex,' enabling integration with over 20 services including Gmail, Google Drive, GitHub, Figma, Notion, Slack, Cloudflare, and Box - GIGAZINE
To integrate Codex with Chrome, you need to install the Codex extension from the Chrome Web Store into Chrome, and then install the Chrome plugin in the Codex app.
Codex - Chrome Web Store
https://chromewebstore.google.com/detail/codex/hehggadaopoacecdllhhajmbjkdcmajg
The Codex Chrome extension will be available in all regions except the EU and the UK starting May 8, 2026. Setup instructions and troubleshooting for Codex and Chrome can be found on the OpenAI Developers website.
Codex Chrome extension – Codex app | OpenAI Developers
https://developers.openai.com/codex/app/chrome-extension
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