What to know

  • GPT‑5.2‑Codex is a specialized version of GPT‑5.2, tuned for long‑horizon coding tasks like big refactors, migrations, and multi‑file changes.​
  • It’s now available in Codex for all paid ChatGPT users, with API access coming in the next few weeks.​
  • OpenAI is also starting an invite‑only pilot for vetted security pros and orgs focused on defensive cybersecurity.​
  • The model shows strong results on agentic coding benchmarks like SWE‑Bench Pro and Terminal‑Bench 2.0.​

OpenAI is calling GPT‑5.2‑Codex its most advanced “agentic coding model” so far, designed for real‑world software engineering rather than just quick code snippets. It’s based on GPT‑5.2 but optimized specifically for coding workflows, with better handling of large codebases and long‑running tasks.​

A major upgrade is “context compaction,” which lets the model keep more of a codebase in view during long sessions. This helps it stay consistent across large refactors, migrations, and multi-file changes, avoiding lost dependencies or made-up packages.

The model is also being pushed as a tool for defensive cybersecurity, with stronger awareness of security patterns and safeguards against generating risky code like SQL injection or unmasked data output. OpenAI notes this is part of a broader trend where increasingly capable models can help defenders find and fix vulnerabilities earlier, while also requiring careful deployment to avoid misuse.​

On the performance side, GPT‑5.2‑Codex hits state‑of‑the‑art scores on benchmarks like SWE‑Bench Pro (56.4% accuracy) and Terminal‑Bench 2.0, which test how well an AI can act as an autonomous coding agent on complex, real‑world tasks. It also has improved vision capabilities, so it can better interpret screenshots, diagrams, and UI mockups when generating or modifying code.​

Image Credits: Openai.com

Currently, GPT‑5.2‑Codex is available in Codex for all paid ChatGPT subscribers, powering IDE extensions, the CLI, and the cloud coding environment. API access will be available to developers soon, along with a trusted access program for security professionals and organizations focused on defensive cybersecurity.

This is the next step in turning Codex into a true engineering partner. With better long-term planning and security-aware coding, it could help teams handle major refactors, audits, and even vulnerability testing, while keeping safety measures in place.