OpenAI launches agents API, expanding codex capabilities for developers

OpenAI has launched the Agents API, integrating Codex into a RESTful interface for developers. The API offers a single endpoint, POST https://api.openai.com/v1/agents/sessions, requiring the OpenAI-Beta: agents=v1 header. It enables session management, orchestration, and context compression, with applications providing tools and execution environments. The API supports four core concepts: Agent, Environment, Session, and Events. Developers can create sessions, assign tasks, and use webhooks or streaming for follow-ups. Pricing is based on model usage, standard tool rates, and container rates for sandboxes. Data residency is limited to the US, and Zero Data Retention is not supported. Community feedback highlights concerns over vendor lock-in versus practical benefits of reduced maintenance. SDKs are available in Python, TS/JS, Go, Java, and Ruby. A user noted sandbox network access modes and questioned billing practices. The API aims to server-ize Codex, enabling long-running agents as a first-class API for backend programs.