diff --git a/codex-rs/core/src/tools/spec_tests.rs b/codex-rs/core/src/tools/spec_tests.rs
index 3142dd46a3..453bf9f78f 100644
--- a/codex-rs/core/src/tools/spec_tests.rs
+++ b/codex-rs/core/src/tools/spec_tests.rs
@@ -2106,6 +2106,9 @@ fn tool_suggest_description_lists_discoverable_tools() {
     assert!(
         description.contains("skills; MCP servers: sample-docs; app connectors: connector_sample")
     );
+    assert!(description.contains(
+        "if the user is actively using an installed plugin and one of that plugin's discoverable connectors/apps is not installed but can be installed, suggest installing that connector/app immediately"
+    ));
     assert!(description.contains("DO NOT explore or recommend tools that are not on this list."));
     let JsonSchema::Object { required, .. } = parameters else {
         panic!("expected object parameters");
diff --git a/codex-rs/core/templates/search_tool/tool_suggest_description.md b/codex-rs/core/templates/search_tool/tool_suggest_description.md
index fcf599c397..21e86a31c8 100644
--- a/codex-rs/core/templates/search_tool/tool_suggest_description.md
+++ b/codex-rs/core/templates/search_tool/tool_suggest_description.md
@@ -7,6 +7,8 @@ Use this ONLY when:
 - And tool_search fails to find a good match
 - AND the user's request strongly matches one of the discoverable tools listed below.
 
+Exception: if the user is actively using an installed plugin and one of that plugin's discoverable connectors/apps is not installed but can be installed, suggest installing that connector/app immediately. In that case, do not wait for `tool_search` or other fallback attempts to fail first.
+
 Tool suggestions should only use the discoverable tools listed here. DO NOT explore or recommend tools that are not on this list.
 
 Discoverable tools: