OpenAI develops unified Codex app and new Scratchpad feature

OpenAI is developing a Scratchpad feature for Codex to run parallel tasks and moving toward a unified desktop app that could merge ChatGPT and Atlas. Code hints at managed agents with persistent workflows, alongside speculation of a GPT-5.5 release.

🗞 #chatgpt @testingcatalog

OpenAI is working on a new experimental feature for Codex called Scratchpad.

Users will be able to start multiple Codex chats from a TODO list view, which will be executed in parallel.

It will become very instrumental in the upcoming Codex Superapp, where you will be able to trigger a broader range of tasks to achieve your goals.

* Not available yet 👀

Google develops voice mode and collaborative tools for Mixboard

Google’s Mixboard is expanding beyond image canvases with stickers, voice notes, shapes, markers, voice control, and PDF export. The updates position it closer to collaborative whiteboarding tools, blending generative AI with day-to-day team workflows.

🗞 #aitestkitchen @testingcatalog

GOOGLE ⚡️: Google is working on Voice Mode and new collaborative tools for its Mixboard experiment.

Voice mode on Mixboard works similarly to Stitch, allowing users to operate their canvas boards with voice commands.

It will be possible to generate and edit images, and potentially move them around.

Imagine a team retrospective where everyone can just dump their complaints with voice commands!

xAI prepares credits system for upcoming Grok Build launch

xAI is preparing a credits-based pricing model for Grok Build, its upcoming coding platform with local CLI and web access. Features like Model Arena and bundled monthly credits point to a commercial launch aimed at competing with Codex and Claude Code.

🗞 #grok @testingcatalog

Meta started rolling out Contemplating mode for Muse Spark, where 16 agents will work on your prompt to synthesize a consolidated answer!

Deep Think for free? 👀

Anthropic tests Claude Code upgrade to rival Codex Superapp

Anthropic’s “Epitaxy” revamps Claude Code’s desktop app with Plan, Tasks, Diffs, code preview, multi-repo support, custom agents, and a local Coordinator Mode, signaling a shift toward power-user developer workflows.

🗞 #claude @testingcatalog

Both Anthropic and OpenAI are gearing up to release updates to their desktop apps already next week.

Anthropic is finalizing its new Claude Code "epitaxy" experience with a power-user-friendly UI, Cowork-style layout, and the possibility to work on multiple repositories at once.

Users will be able to preview their code right in the app, along with sections to view a "Plan", "Tasks" executed by sub-agents, and "Diff".

Coordinator Mode is coming too 👀

OpenAI is preparing to split Codex use cases into Basic and Advanced (for developers), along with new additions like app preview, scratchpad, and more.

Discovered by x@mweinbach

It also comes with a new Pull Requests section for PR management and the possibility to leave comments right on the previewed UI.

OpenAI tests web browsing feature on Codex Superapp

OpenAI is preparing a broader Codex update with basic and pro onboarding, pull request tools, live UI previews, inline feedback, and parallel task planning, positioning Codex as a unified workspace beyond coding.

🗞 #chatgpt @testingcatalog

Google develops its own desktop Agent to compete with Cowork

Google appears to be turning Gemini Enterprise into an agent-based work platform. A new Agent tab, task workspace, connected tools, and human-review controls point a possible desktop-focused rollout during I/O.

🗞 #gemini @testingcatalog

Google I/O leaks 👀

Google is likely already testing its own "Cowork" competitor, simply named "Agent" for Gemini and Gemini Enterprise.

A new "Tasks" UI highlights
- Goal
- Agent
- Connected apps
- Files
- Require a human review toggle
- And more

The "Require a human review" component specifically means that Gemini's capabilities will likely expand, potentially allowing users to automate their desktop tasks as well.

Skills and Projects are also cooking 👀