OpenAI has launched a Codex extension for Google Chrome that allows users to control the browser directly through its Codex AI coding assistant. The extension, released in 2026, enables Codex to interact with websites using a user’s logged-in account, handling tasks such as reading emails, updating Salesforce records, interacting with LinkedIn, and accessing internal company tools.
To set up the extension, users must open the Codex app on a Windows or macOS device, navigate to the “Plugins” section, and add the Chrome plugin. Following the setup instructions installs the Chrome extension, during which Chrome will prompt users to approve a series of permissions required for browser automation. Once complete, users should confirm the extension displays a “Connected” status in Chrome. Those who need Codex to upload local files to websites can enable “Allow access to file URLs” through Manage Extensions > Codex > Details.
After setup, Codex will automatically suggest using Chrome when a task requires access to a logged-in website. Users can also manually trigger browser tasks with prompts such as “@Chrome open Salesforce and update the account from these call notes.” Tasks are organized into Chrome tab groups, keeping AI-related browser activity grouped together.
The extension requires several permissions to operate, including reading and changing data across websites, accessing browsing history, managing downloads, reading bookmarks, accessing tab groups, displaying notifications, and communicating with native applications.
On privacy, OpenAI states it does not store a separate record of Chrome activity generated by the extension. However, information may become part of Codex’s context if the AI reads page text, captures screenshots, or generates summaries during a task. The company notes that standard ChatGPT and Codex data controls apply to extension data. OpenAI advises users to “avoid sending secrets or highly sensitive data through browser tasks unless they’re required and you are present to review each prompt.”
Source: mint – technology