OpenClaw, a new open-source AI agent, has quickly become popular in China. People of all ages, from students to retirees, are using it, according to a Reuters report.
Created by Austrian developer Peter Steinberger, the tool was first introduced in November under a different name and was later renamed OpenClaw. It allows users to connect different software and hardware systems and learn from data with limited human input, and has since become one of the fastest-growing projects on GitHub.
In China, users often refer to their AI agents as «lobsters» and use the tool to organize information, build applications or seek additional income.
The growing interest has also affected the market, with enthusiasm around OpenClaw helping to boost Chinese technology stocks. Some local governments are promoting AI adoption among small businesses by offering targeted subsidies.
However, concerns remain over cost, effectiveness and security. Some users report limited results despite spending on usage tokens. Regulators have warned of potential risks, and several government institutions and universities have restricted the tool’s use in line with official guidance.
