OpenAI unveils Codex Micro, a hardware controller for AI agents

OpenAI has unveiled Codex Micro, a compact mechanical controller designed to make interacting with AI agents more tactile. The device is built specifically for Codex and gives users physical controls for monitoring tasks and managing AI workflows.

Users can launch commands, adjust settings, and monitor an agent's progress directly from the device instead of relying entirely on the software interface.

Codex Micro features 13 mechanical switches, a touchpad, a low-profile joystick, and a rotary encoder.

Six translucent RGB keys display the current state of a Codex agent, changing color to indicate whether it is running, waiting for approval, has completed a task, or encountered an error.

The joystick can be used to trigger common coding workflows, such as sending code for refactoring or review, or launching a debugging session.

The rotary encoder lets users adjust the model's reasoning depth. The remaining programmable keys can be assigned to actions such as starting voice mode, sending prompts, or opening a new chat.

Codex Micro supports both macOS and Windows, connecting over Bluetooth or USB-C.

The controller is being released as a limited-edition product priced at $230 and is available through OpenAI's online store.

Its aluminum and polycarbonate chassis ships with a USB-C cable and a set of 32 interchangeable keycaps featuring Codex-specific icons.

Despite the hardware launch, this is not the consumer device OpenAI is expected to unveil later this year. According to Bloomberg, the company's first mass-market product is still expected to be a screenless AI companion powered by ChatGPT.