On September 29, 2026, OpenAI introduced a refreshed version of the Codex CLI, focusing on the integration of previously released features, such as voice control and worktree support, into a cohesive terminal environment. The DevDay recap presentation also showcased a new `/agents` view for delegating and tracking tasks. Although voice control in Codex CLI had been available experimentally since September 17, 2026, and by default since September 22, 2026, DevDay highlighted their combination into a streamlined workflow. These updates may impact the standard working practices of software engineers.
New /agents view and interface improvements
OpenAI announced that the update is available for all plans. A key promise is the reduction of friction when switching between tasks in the terminal, which is essential for developers managing multiple projects simultaneously.
The current OpenAI CLI guide already describes resuming a saved conversation using codex resume and delegating work to subagents. DevDay combines these elements with voice support and a clearer multitasking view.
Voice interaction in Codex CLI and its history
The ability to issue voice commands in Codex CLI is not a new feature introduced at DevDay. The OpenAI Codex changelog indicates that experimental voice conversations (/voice) appeared in the CLI in version 0.155.0 as early as September 17, 2026, offering live transcription and microphone control on supported builds. In version 0.156.0, released on September 22, 2026, voice conversations were enabled by default, with toggling available via the F8 key and settings accessible through /voice settings. The DevDay announcement highlighted the use of voice for initiating and controlling coding tasks within the refreshed terminal environment.
It is worth noting that competing solutions, such as Anthropic's Claude Code, introduced official support for voice mode as early as March 3, 2026. In Claude Code, to enable voice mode, one must enter the command /voice and then hold the spacebar to start speaking. This feature offers real-time voice transcription, efficient hands-free collaboration, and native integration with existing CLI/terminal workflows.
Multitasking and worktrees: The evolution of project management
As with voice control, support for worktrees in Codex CLI also has a history prior to DevDay. An OpenAI press note from September 9, 2026, informs that CLI version 0.154.0 introduced experimental running and branching in separate Git worktrees. The version 0.156.0 changelog confirms that worktree support was enabled by default, and the agent command center gained task status filtering and worktree session creation. This means that the reference to worktrees at DevDay was an enhancement of an evolving workflow, rather than the debut of Git isolation in Codex. Worktree allows for conducting a task in a separate working copy.
The `/agents` view, presented at DevDay, aims to delegate work and track multiple tasks. The current OpenAI guide on subagents confirms that local Codex clients already run parallel subagent workflows, with the main thread collecting results. A practical benefit, if the announced view is present, is better visibility of delegated work. However, it should be remembered that higher parallelism may consume more tokens than a comparable single-agent run.
Deployment in 2026: Business and operational perspective
The Codex CLI update, presented on September 29, 2026, is available for all plans. The direction of development set by OpenAI is indisputable, moving toward an intelligent assistant rather than just a passive command interpreter.
Challenges and limitations: What should you keep in mind?
Before deciding on a migration, it is worth remaining pragmatic. Increased parallelism when working with subagents may involve higher token consumption than running a single agent. This trade-off between costs and oversight still exists, even when the command center makes delegation easier.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the refreshed Codex CLI
When did OpenAI introduce the refreshed Codex CLI?
The refreshed Codex CLI was introduced by OpenAI on September 29, 2026, as part of the DevDay recap.
Is the update available now?
Yes, the update is available for all plans.
How does voice control work?
Experimental voice conversations in Codex CLI were available from September 17, 2026, and enabled by default from September 22, 2026. The DevDay announcement highlighted their integration within the refreshed terminal environment.
Does the tool allow for simultaneous execution of multiple tasks?
Yes, Codex CLI supports parallel subagent workflows, and the new `/agents` view is designed for delegating and tracking multiple tasks.
Sources
- https://openai.com/index/devday-2026-recap/
- https://opentools.ai/news/codex-cli-voice-agents-view-worktrees-update
- https://news.aibase.com/news/25877
- https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/codex/cli
- https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/changelog
- https://help.openai.com/en/articles/11391654-chatgpt-business-release-notes
- https://learn.chatgpt.com/docs/agent-configuration/subagents
Comments