On May 16, 2025, OpenAI introduced a fresh tool for developers – a Software Engineering Agent integrated directly into the ChatGPT web app. Designed to help you tackle code-related questions, run snippets, and even draft pull requests, this new addition is set to make your development process more efficient.
Following its acquisition of the AI code editor WindSurf, OpenAI is clearly sharpening its focus on developer-centric tools. A new sidebar button labeled ‘Codex’ will take you through an onboarding experience that promises a consistent, feature-rich workspace for all your engineering tasks. Initially available on the desktop app, access might first be limited to Pro users so that the experience can be fine-tuned based on early feedback.
If you’ve ever struggled with juggling multiple platforms, this update could ease your daily workflow. Leaks suggest that the agent might operate independently from the main ChatGPT interface – hints like “Back to ChatGPT” and “Asynchronous coding agents” point in that direction. This separation is part of a broader effort to embed practical coding assistance deep within your daily toolchain.
Earlier, OpenAI open-sourced Codex CLI, a terminal-based tool capable of rewriting and executing code locally. Combined with the WindSurf acquisition, these moves underline a clear ambition: to merge chat, terminal, and integrated development environment capabilities into one seamless experience. Early previews will be rolled out to select desktop users, with a wider web release anticipated after initial safety feedback is collected.
For anyone looking to cut down the hassle of switching between various coding tools, this new agent offers a thoughtfully integrated solution.
