OpenAI added a new feature to its Codex application, an agent-based tool that helps with coding processes. Developers can now use animated virtual pets to accompany them while coding.

This new feature aims to make the coding experience more visual. The pets in question do not write any code, but serve as assistants floating on the interface.

New helpers for Codex

These animated assistants can convey to the user what the Codex application is currently working on. It also notifies the developer by sending a notification when a task is completed or when input is expected from the user.

Developers can track Codex’s active threads through these pets without logging out of their existing applications. Using the feature is very practical.

Users can call or remove these assistants from the screen by typing the “/pet” command into the application. There are currently eight different resident pets to choose from within the app.

Those who want a more unique experience can create their own pets using the “/hatch” command. Thanks to this command, it becomes possible to design different characters such as goblins.

Personalization and accessibility

Early users have already started sharing their own designs. Among the shared options are different versions of Clippy, one of Microsoft’s former assistants.

This new feature can be used on both Windows and macOS operating systems. With this new tool, OpenAI aims to add a different layer of interaction to developers’ working environments.

The company is also launching a campaign to celebrate this new feature. OpenAI is giving away a 30-day ChatGPT Pro subscription to the owners of the 10 most liked pet designs.

What do you think about these animated pets added to the Codex application?