Beyond rate limits: scaling access to Codex and Sora

OpenAI redesigned how access works for its tools Codex and Sora by moving beyond rigid rate limits that stop users abruptly.

Too many users hit traditional limits and experienced frustrating “hard stops.” To solve this, OpenAI’s engineers created a real-time access engine that combines rate limits with purchasable credits, allowing use to continue smoothly when limits are reached. The system tracks usage, rate windows, and credit balances together, making real-time decisions that are accurate and auditable.

This hybrid model improves user experience, avoids performance issues, and ensures fair access and trust without interrupting workflows.