App Setup
Set up the Codex desktop app for managing multiple coding agents, parallel tasks, and visual workflow management.
App Setup
The Codex app is a desktop application that serves as a command center for agentic coding. It supports built-in worktrees, cloud environments, parallel agent threads, and visual review of results — all in one interface.
Installation#
macOS#
Download the Codex app from openai.com/codex or install it via:
brew install --cask codex
Windows#
The Codex app runs natively on Windows using PowerShell and a native Windows sandbox for bounded permissions. Download from openai.com/codex.
The Codex desktop app launched in February 2026. It is available for macOS and Windows.
- Sign in — Use your ChatGPT account (Plus, Pro, Business, Edu, or Enterprise)
- Connect GitHub — Link your GitHub account so Codex can read repositories and create PRs
- Open a project — Select a local repository or clone one from GitHub
Key Features#
Worktree Support#
The app creates isolated Git worktrees for each task. This means Codex can work on multiple features simultaneously without conflicts on your main branch.
Parallel Agent Threads#
Run multiple coding tasks at once. Each thread gets its own context and sandbox:
- Fix a bug in one thread
- Add a feature in another
- Review code in a third
Cloud Tasks#
Create cloud tasks that run in sandboxed environments preloaded with your repository:
- Tasks run autonomously in the cloud
- Review results when they complete
- Apply changes locally or create PRs directly
Visual Review#
The app includes a review pane where you can:
- See file-by-file diffs of what Codex changed
- Stage, unstage, or revert changes
- Add inline comments and request modifications
- Commit, push, and create PRs directly from the app
Built-in Terminal#
An integrated terminal lets you run Git commands, install dependencies, or debug without leaving the app.
Git Integration#
The Codex app has built-in Git support:
- Commit and push directly from the UI
- Create pull requests without leaving the app
- Review diffs with inline annotations
- Manage branches and worktrees visually
Configuration#
The app shares ~/.codex/config.toml with the CLI and IDE extension. Any model, safety, or MCP settings you configure in one surface apply everywhere.
Tips for Best Results#
Start with small, well-defined tasks. Codex works best when you give it clear goals like "Add input validation to the signup form" rather than vague requests like "Improve the app."
Next Steps#
- CLI Setup — Terminal-based workflow
- IDE Setup — In-editor experience
- GitHub Integration — Automated PR reviews
- Multi-Agent — Run specialized agent roles