OpenAI just gave Codex a boost with its new Record & Replay feature. Now, instead of writing out instructions, you can actually show Codex how to do a task and it picks it up by watching you. So, you do the job once, Codex observes, and then turns your actions into a reusable skill. That is supposed to make automating your computer work a lot easier.
There is a reason for this. Most people find it way simpler to demonstrate a repetitive task than to sit down and explain every step. So, rather than crafting detailed prompts or building scripts, you just perform the workflow on your Mac and Codex records it all. After that, you have got repeatable automation you can use whenever you need.
What is Codex Record & Replay?
Record & Replay is a feature in Codex that lets you create reusable skills just by recording what you do on your Mac. When you hit record, Codex watches your workflow closely and builds a structured skill from your actions.
OpenAI says that each skill contains the details on when to use it, the inputs it might need, the steps for completing it, and how to know when it is finished. Basically, if you keep running into tasks that are not easy to spell out in a prompt, this feature is aimed at you. By learning directly from demonstrations, Codex can transform everyday computer tasks into repeatable AI powered automations.
Show Codex a workflow once. Reuse it as a skill.
— OpenAI Developers (@OpenAIDevs) June 18, 2026
Record & Replay lets you show Codex a recurring task, like filing an expense report or submitting a time-off request.
Codex turns that demo into an inspectable, editable skill.
You control when recording starts and stops. pic.twitter.com/UqSGaO7XUs
How to Use Record & Replay
Record & Replay is designed to let users teach workflows through direct demonstration. Once a workflow has been recorded, Codex can reuse it whenever the task needs to be completed again.
1. Start a Recording
First, open Codex and pick “Record a Skill.” If you get a prompt about permissions, grant Codex access to screen recording, it needs to see exactly what you are doing.
While it is recording, go through your workflow exactly as you want it performed in the future. This may include:
- Opening applications or websites
- Navigating through pages and menus
- Clicking buttons and links
- Entering information into forms
- Uploading or downloading files
- Completing the task from start to finish
Once you are finished, stop the recording. Codex then looks over what you did and creates a skill based on your actions.
2. Replay the Workflow
Whenever you want to run the workflow, just tell Codex to execute the skill. No need to redo each step yourself, Codex will take care of the process for you, following along with what you demonstrated.
3. When to Build Another Skill
If you want Codex to handle different tasks, you can record as many workflows as you like. Each gets saved as its own skill, so you can manage multiple automations for different jobs.
A few tips for better recordings:
- Make sure screen recording is enabled before you start.
- Demonstrate the workflow as clearly and consistently as possible.
- Do not skip steps, show exactly what needs to happen.
- Record the process the way you want it done next time.
- Review the skill Codex creates to catch any issues.
- Record separate workflows as separate skills.
Who Can Use Codex Record & Replay?
Record & Replay is designed for anyone who does the same computer tasks over and over. No programming background needed, just be able to show Codex what you want. OpenAI points out a few possible uses: filing expense reports, booking parking, publishing videos, downloading regular reports, or creating tickets with preset configurations.
| As reported by OpenAI, Record & Replay is available on macOS. Initial availability excludes the European Economic Area, the United Kingdom, and Switzerland. Computer Use must also be available and enabled. |
Also read: OpenAI is Using Referrals to Scale Codex in 2026 & Why it Works
With Record & Replay, OpenAI makes workflow automation a lot more simpler. Rather than struggling with complicated prompts or technical tools, you teach Codex by doing the task once. Then you have an automation you can reuse whenever you want. For users handling repetitive digital tasks, the feature could offer a faster way to automate everyday work while making AI-powered productivity tools accessible to a broader range of users.
