Task-led Codex workflow · official OpenAI Developers article checked Nov 3, 2026
Use Codex Remote to start an isolated coding task and review it from your phone
For a coding change that should stay separate from your current checkout, start a Codex Remote chat in a fresh worktree, choose the intended branch and host, then review the diff and follow-up changes from your phone.
When should I start a Codex Remote task in a worktree?
Choose a fresh worktree when a change should stay isolated from the current checkout. OpenAI's Remote workflow lets you select the connected host and workspace, choose a branch, create a separate worktree, and run that environment's setup before the first prompt. Use the current checkout for a quick investigation when you do not need a separate change.
How do I set up the task before prompting?
Pick the connected machine that has the right repository and development environment, choose the workspace and intended base branch, and create a worktree when you want the change isolated. Let the configured environment setup run before asking Codex to build or test. Attach a relevant file or screenshot if it removes ambiguity, then state the task and acceptance checks.
Should I queue or steer a follow-up prompt?
Queue a separate task or extra test request so it starts after the current response. Steer when the active task is heading in the wrong direction and needs an immediate correction. OpenAI documents these as different follow-up behaviors; check the prompt and scope before redirecting active work.
How can I review changes from my phone?
Open the changed-file summary, inspect the diff, and open source files when the diff needs more context. You can leave inline comments tied to particular lines and send that review context back to Codex, then inspect the follow-up diff. A phone can support quick review decisions, but OpenAI's article says it does not replace a large monitor for deep code reading.
How should I handle command approvals?
Choose the narrowest approval that fits the request. For an unfamiliar command or sensitive repository, review or deny the request and ask Codex to explain or use another approach. The approval choices available can depend on the request and host configuration, so inspect the scope shown for each approval.
Does this guide establish that Codex Remote is faster or safer?
No. It summarizes a workflow described in official OpenAI Developers material checked November 3, 2026. It does not measure coding quality, speed, reliability, or safety. Features and availability can depend on the connected host, app version, and account configuration; check the current product before relying on a specific command or control.