OpenAI is developing a feature for Codex to control macOS applications via Computer Use even when the laptop is locked or asleep, and to remotely operate other desktop devices running the Codex app, extending its remote control capabilities.
OpenAI is working on a capability that lets its coding agent operate macOS applications through Computer Use even when a laptop is locked or asleep. Computer Use currently requires an unlocked, awake session to see the screen, move the cursor, and type. Lifting the restriction will allow users to direct their agents without having to walk back to their machines to log in first. It is unknown when the feature will be released.
# Codex can now control other desktop devices via Computer Use
Source: [https://www.testingcatalog.com/openai-will-let-codex-control-other-desktop-devices-via-computer-use/](https://www.testingcatalog.com/openai-will-let-codex-control-other-desktop-devices-via-computer-use/)
OpenAI appears to be quietly extending the reach of its Codex remote control system, working on a capability that would let the coding agent operate macOS applications through Computer Use even when a laptop is locked or asleep\. The work is being positioned as a follow\-up to the[remote control feature](https://www.testingcatalog.com/openai-brings-codex-to-chatgpt-mobile-app-for-ios-and-android/)that landed in the ChatGPT mobile app on May 14, which lets iPhone and Android users review outputs, approve commands, switch models, and dispatch new tasks to a Mac running the Codex desktop app\.
The new piece in development addresses one of the most awkward gaps in that workflow\.**The blocker has been Computer Use itself**, which requires an unlocked, awake session to see the screen, move the cursor, and type in apps\. Lifting that restriction would mean a phone could direct the agent to open a desktop app, test a GUI build, run through a simulator, or hit a data source, all without the user having to walk back to the machine to log in first\.
It would also close a gap with Anthropic, which shipped its own phone\-to\-machine control for Claude Code back in February but remains similarly constrained once a Mac locks\.
How Apple reacts is the open question\. Bypassing the standard expectation that a locked screen means an idle, untouchable session sits uncomfortably with macOS security defaults, and any approach that keeps a screen\-driving agent active inside a locked session will likely draw attention from Cupertino\. Release timing has not surfaced, but this should be read as the second beat of the same remote\-control story rather than a standalone launch\.
Additionally,[OpenAI](https://www.testingcatalog.com/tag/chatgpt/)is exploring the possibility of connecting to and controlling other desktop devices running the Codex app\. For example, you can install it on a Mac Mini and operate it directly from your main device\. Based on the still\-developing UI component, users will be able to connect to and operate many devices remotely\.
OpenAI demonstrates the 'Computer Use' feature in Codex, allowing the AI to directly interact with local GUI applications on macOS using an accessibility framework and the fast Spark model for non-blocking, high-speed automation.
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