Last week, OpenAI released an all-new version of Codex for Mac, containing the best example yet of AI-driven computer use.
Now, Codex for Mac is taking its recently acquired memory capabilities even further with a feature OpenAI calls Chronicle.
Codex’s Chronicle uses recent screen content to improve context
Codex is a desktop “super app” being developed by OpenAI. At this time, Codex is specifically created for agent coding. ChatGPT is a more general AI chatbot app.
Going forward, OpenAI will develop Codex into a more capable tool for builders beyond software engineers.
The Chronicle is a step toward that goal. Chronicle’s goal is to make the Codex more context-aware without repeating details or making each prompt very specific.
It is built on memory, allowing Codex to learn context from conversation history. Chronicle goes even further with recent screen context.
OpenAI explains how it works:
With Chronicle, Codex can better understand what “this” or “that” means. It could be an error on your screen, an open document, or “stuff” you were working on two weeks ago. Over time, Codex helps you learn how you work: the tools you use, the projects you return to, and the workflows you rely on.
Chronicle runs a background agent to build memories from screen captures. Rate limiting is used immediately. Screen captures are temporarily stored on your device to generate memory and are also stored on your device. You can explore and edit your memories. Be aware that other apps may access these files.
For your privacy, you can pause or disable Chronicle at any time from the Codex menu bar app. However, OpenAI warns that Chronicle will quickly exhaust its rate limit based on its current design.
How to enable/disable Chronicle in Codex
According to OpenAI, Chronicle in Codex is available as a research preview feature for Pro subscribers on Mac starting today.
Here’s how to enable the new feature:
- Open Settings in the Codex app.
- Go to (Personal Settings) and make sure (Memories) is enabled.
- Turn on Chronicle under Memory settings.
- Review the consent dialog and select (Continue).
- When prompted, grant macOS screen recording and accessibility permissions.
- Once setup is complete, select (Try it out) or (Start a new thread).
For more information about the new Chronicle feature in Codex, please see the OpenAI documentation.
In addition to enhancements to the Codex desktop app, OpenAI recently introduced subscriptions designed for Codex users.
