OpenAI adds Command-Command Appshots feature to Codex for Mac, capturing both screenshots and text beyond visible area

OpenAI released an update to Codex for Mac on May 21, 2026, adding Appshots, a feature that captures application window content using a Command-Command keyboard shortcut. According to OpenAI, the feature captures both a screenshot and text from the window, including content beyond what's visible on screen.

The Appshots feature provides context to Codex chat threads by attaching app window content. OpenAI states users press Command-Command to attach their current app window to a Codex thread.

Additional updates in Codex release

The update includes an upgraded /goal command, which OpenAI says has graduated from experimental status. According to the company, goal mode allows Codex to work on tasks across hours or days, with users able to check in, steer progress, or pause execution. OpenAI recommends using side chats to understand completed work without interrupting the main task.

The in-app browser now includes what OpenAI describes as faster performance with advanced annotation mode and batch comments support.

Business and enterprise features

Business users can now share custom plugins between teams. Enterprise users can request early access to shared plugins support from OpenAI.

Analytics for business and enterprise users now include metrics for active users, credits, tokens, runs, user leaderboards, lines of code generated, and plugin usage, according to OpenAI.

OpenAI also announced that Codex can now access Mac computers remotely through iOS devices, even when the Mac screen is locked and off.

What this means

The Appshots feature addresses a common friction point in AI coding assistants: manually providing context about what you're working on. By capturing both visual and textual content beyond the visible viewport, Codex can access more complete application state information. The Command-Command shortcut provides quick context sharing without requiring manual screenshots or copy-pasting. The remote Mac access feature extends Codex's utility for developers who need to trigger tasks away from their primary workstation, though security implications of accessing locked computers remotely warrant scrutiny.