OpenAI Codex Now Lets You Send Tasks From Your Phone Even When Your Mac Is Locked
Imagine firing off a task from your phone and having your Mac handle it while the screen is off and the computer is locked. That future is here. OpenAI’s Codex app for Mac just received a significant update, and it fundamentally changes how you can interact with your desktop remotely.
Until now, a major hurdle for AI agents like Claude Cowork or OpenAI Codex was that they required your Mac to be unlocked and actively running. This created a serious security concern for many users. With the latest Codex update, OpenAI has addressed this head-on, allowing you to send Codex tasks from phone even when your Mac is locked.
How Does the Locked Computer Use Feature Work?
To use this new capability, you first need to install the Computer Use plugin and grant it the necessary permissions. The setting is easy to find: navigate to Codex → Settings → Computer Use, and enable the locked computer use option.
Once activated, you can send any task from your smartphone to your Mac. When Codex receives the instruction and needs to access your computer after it locks, it temporarily unlocks the Mac in the background. Crucially, the screen remains protected during this process.
What happens if someone touches your keyboard or mouse? Codex immediately relocks the Mac and stops the automatic unlock. You will then need to log back in manually. This safety net is essential if your computer is in a shared space.
What Tasks Can You Send?
From your phone, you can ask Codex to perform a wide range of actions on your Mac. This includes opening apps, editing documents, searching files, or even running scripts. The system is designed to work seamlessly, even when you are away from your desk.
Security Measures: Should You Be Worried?
OpenAI has built several safeguards into this feature to protect your data and privacy. Each unlock attempt is short-lived and scoped only to the active Codex task. This means the temporary unlock is not a free pass for any other process.
Furthermore, Codex covers every display while your desktop is temporarily unlocked. This prevents anyone nearby from peeking at your screen. You remain in complete control throughout the process. Codex asks for permission before operating each new app, and you can stop the task or take over your computer at any time. There is also an “Always allow” option for apps you fully trust.
As a result, the feature addresses the core security flaw of earlier AI agents. However, it is not available in the European Economic Area, the UK, or Switzerland at launch. Additionally, it cannot automate Terminal apps, Codex itself, or any system-level admin prompts.
Practical Implications for Users
This update makes remote Mac automation significantly more practical. For example, you can start a file download, edit a spreadsheet, or run a data analysis task while commuting. The AI agent handles the work without requiring your physical presence.
Building on this, the feature could be a game-changer for professionals who need to manage multiple tasks across devices. You can now use your phone as a command center for your desktop, bridging the gap between mobile convenience and desktop power.
Final Thoughts on the Codex Update
OpenAI has implemented enough protective measures to satisfy most users. Whether you decide to trust it is a personal choice, but the technology is undeniably impressive. The ability to send Codex tasks from phone while your Mac is locked represents a major step forward in AI-assisted computing.
For more insights on AI automation, check out our guide on AI automation tips for professionals. You can also learn about Mac productivity hacks using AI.
