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Is Codex a word processor?

No.

Codex provides an authoring experience that is somewhat similar to a word processor. However, the underlying file format used by Codex (DITA) is very different than that used by word processors. In addition, Codex does not provide many of the features found in most word processors.

Is Codex a DITA/XML editor?

Yes and no.

Content created with Codex is saved in DITA format, an XML-based architecture. However, authoring in a typical DITA/XML editor involves the manipulation of a strict hierarchy of XML tags. Authoring in Codex involves typing and applying styles to text, much like a rich text editor. In addition, Codex does not support the full DITA standard. That said, we often refer to Codex as a DITA editor because that is the term that comes closest to describing what Codex is.

What is DITA?

DITA is an open standard XML file format that lets you author content in small topic files and assemble those topics into larger documents. By re-using topics within multiple documents and across multiple departments, you can produce content much more efficiently than using traditional word processing or desktop publishing software.

What is Adobe AIR?

Adobe® AIR® is a cross-platform runtime environment for desktop applications that are based on Web technologies like HTML, JavaScript, Adobe Flash®, and ActionScript®. Codex was developed for use with Adobe AIR. You may already have Adobe AIR on your system. If not, the Codex installer will install it for you.