OpenAI has launched Chronicle, a new feature for its Codex Mac app that uses recent screen content to improve context awareness. The feature builds on Codex's existing memory capability, allowing the AI to understand references like "this" or "that" without users having to repeat details. It represents OpenAI's push to develop Codex into a broader "superapp" beyond just coding assistance.

Chronicle runs background agents that capture screen content to build memories, helping Codex understand what users have been working on—whether that's an error on screen, an open document, or a project from weeks ago. Over time, the feature learns how users work, including their preferred tools and workflows. Screen captures are stored temporarily on device to generate memories, which are also saved locally.

The feature is available for Pro subscribers on Mac as a research preview. Users can enable it through Settings under Personalization, though OpenAI warns that Chronicle consumes rate limits quickly. The feature can be paused or disabled at any time from the menu bar app, and users can inspect and edit the memories it creates.

This launch comes as OpenAI expands Codex beyond its coding roots. The company recently introduced a subscription designed specifically for Codex users, signaling its ambition to build a more capable tool for creators beyond just software engineers.