OpenAI releases Codex ‘Chronicle’ feature for enhancing context, here’s how it works

Last week, OpenAI released an all-new version of Codex for Mac that includes the best example of AI-driven computer use yet.

Today, Codex for Mac is taking its recently gained memory feature further with a feature OpenAI calls Chronicle.

Chronicle in Codex uses recent screen content for improving context

Codex is OpenAI’s desktop “superapp” in the making. For now, Codex is especially made for agentic coding. ChatGPT is the more general AI chatbot app.

Going forward, OpenAI is developing Codex into a more capable tool for builders beyond software engineers.

Chronicle is one step toward that goal. The purpose of Chronicle is to make Codex more aware of context without repeating details or being super specific with each prompt.

It builds on memory, which lets Codex learn from conversation history for context. Chronicle goes further by using recent screen context.

OpenAI explains how it works:

With Chronicle, Codex can better understand what you mean by “this” or “that.” Like an error on screen, a doc you have open, or that “thing” you were working on two weeks ago. Over time, it helps Codex learn how you work: the tools you use, the projects you return to, and the workflows you rely on.

Chronicle runs background agents to build memories from screen captures. It uses rate limits quickly. Screen captures are stored temporarily on device to generate memories—also stored on device. You can inspect and edit memories. Be aware that other apps may access these files.

In terms of privacy, Chronicle can be paused or disabled at any time from Codex’s menu bar app. However, OpenAI warns that Chronicle consumes rate limits quickly based on its current design.

How to enable/disable Chronicle in Codex

OpenAI says Chronicle in Codex is available for Pro subscribers on the Mac starting today as a research preview feature.

Here’s how to enable the new feature:

1. Open Settings in the Codex app.
2. Go to Personalization and make sure Memories is enabled.
3. Turn on Chronicle below the Memories setting.
4. Review the consent dialog and choose Continue.
5. Grant macOS Screen Recording and Accessibility permissions when prompted.
6. When setup completes, choose Try it out or start a new thread.

You can learn more about Codex’s new Chronicle feature from OpenAI’s documentation.

In addition to enhancing the Codex desktop app, OpenAI recently introduced a subscription designed for Codex users.