The artificial intelligence landscape is rapidly evolving beyond simple conversational interfaces. Users are increasingly seeking AI capable of proactive task management – scheduling appointments, managing email, and even making purchases. OpenClaw represents the latest development in this trend, originating with a solo developer pursuing an ambitious idea.
Unlike platforms like ChatGPT that require logging into a website, or apps downloaded to a smartphone, OpenClaw is an open-source AI personal assistant that runs directly on a user’s computer. It’s controlled through everyday messaging applications such as WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, or Signal. Instead of launching a dedicated program, users simply send a message requesting the AI to perform a task.
The project was created by Austrian programmer Peter Steinberger, founder of the software company PSPDFKit. The initial concept stemmed from a simple question: why not create an agent capable of overseeing other AI agents? This idea materialized into code, initially released in November 2025 as Clawdbot, a direct reference to Anthropic’s Claude language model. Trademark concerns led to name changes to Moltbot, and finally, in January 2026, to OpenClaw. The project’s mascot, a lobster, has remained consistent throughout these transitions.
OpenClaw quickly gained traction, accumulating over one hundred thousand stars on GitHub within weeks – an uncommon achievement for open-source software. On February 18, 2026, Steinberger announced he would be joining OpenAI, with the OpenClaw project continuing under the guidance of an independent foundation dedicated to its development and management. This move signals growing interest in autonomous AI agents within the tech industry.
How Does it Work?
Currently, installing OpenClaw requires a degree of technical expertise, including familiarity with command lines, environment configuration, and connecting the agent to an external language model like GPT, Claude, or DeepSeek. Project developers caution that users without a fundamental understanding of the process risk potential issues.
Once configured, OpenClaw functions as a persistent intermediary between the user and their computer. It can read and write files, browse the internet, manage calendars, send and delete emails, book travel, and summarize documents – all autonomously, based on natural language instructions. The system learns user habits over time, personalizing responses and anticipating needs. Importantly, all data is intended to be stored locally on the user’s computer, rather than on external servers.
Why Open Source Matters
Unlike proprietary solutions like Microsoft’s Copilot or features within Apple Intelligence, OpenClaw isn’t tied to a closed ecosystem, doesn’t require subscriptions, and allows anyone with technical knowledge to examine the code and understand how the software handles user data. This is a key argument for proponents of digital sovereignty.
The agent is independent of the underlying AI platform and can be adapted to highly specific needs, whether for personal, business, or research purposes. The software itself is free, with users only bearing the cost of the chosen language model.
What are the Potential Risks?
Granting a program access to email, personal files, calendars, and the ability to execute commands on an operating system is a significant decision. Cybersecurity firms have been closely monitoring OpenClaw’s development, and warnings are increasing.
Cisco analyzed a third-party extension associated with the project and identified data extraction and attack behaviors. CrowdStrike detected attempts to manipulate the agent using malicious content to drain cryptocurrency wallets. Palo Alto Networks described the situation as a “lethal triad,” combining access to private data, exposure to unverified information, and autonomous action capabilities.
Experts generally agree that OpenClaw should be treated like a new employee: granted only the minimum necessary permissions, with clear rules and constant supervision, at least initially. The rise of AI agents necessitates a cautious approach to security and data privacy.
OpenClaw is a clear indication of a deeper shift in how we interact with technology. The immediate challenge is ensuring that the autonomy granted to these agents doesn’t create problems greater than the tasks they are designed to solve.
