China is rapidly adopting the popular open-source AI agent OpenClaw, with major tech firms and local governments accelerating access to the lobster-themed tool in recent weeks. AI agents like OpenClaw serve as digital assistants that can autonomously perform tasks such as sending emails, scheduling, and booking reservations, unlike chatbots that only respond to prompts. This proactive capability requires broad data and system access, raising concerns over privacy and security. Tencent, a Chinese tech giant, recently launched a suite of easy-to-use OpenClaw-based AI products called “lobster special forces, ” integrated with its superapp WeChat. Meanwhile, startup Zhipu AI released a localized version pre-installed with over 50 popular skills, available through one-click installation. These moves have spurred widespread consumer interest, with OpenClaw usage in China surpassing that in the U. S. , according to cybersecurity firm SecurityScorecard. Jaylen He, CEO of Shenzhen-based Violoop, highlights China’s large tech-savvy community's eagerness to adopt new technologies, noting even non-tech individuals are embracing the tool. As economic challenges persist, OpenClaw presents a promising opportunity for Chinese companies seeking to attract paying users. Winston Ma, adjunct professor at NYU School of Law, notes that the OpenClaw craze has also boosted interest in Chinese-developed large language models, which increasingly rival U. S. counterparts in capability while being more affordable. OpenClaw, launched in November and developed by Austrian Peter Steinberger (now at OpenAI), allows users to send requests via popular messaging apps like Telegram and WhatsApp, enabling autonomous execution of multiple tasks.

However, installation complexity has limited mass adoption. To address this, Chinese firms are simplifying setup: ByteDance’s Volcano Engine launched 'ArkClaw, ' a browser-based version eliminating complex local installation, while Tencent offered free in-person setup sessions in Shenzhen. E-commerce giant JD. com provides remote paid setup assistance through Lenovo’s IT team, with Meituan reportedly adopting a similar partnership. The OpenClaw wave is also reshaping how Chinese consumers pay for AI services. Violoop, initially focused on overseas markets, now plans a China launch for its device priced at around $300 plus a $30 monthly AI service fee, driven by increased domestic demand and improving local AI models like MiniMax and Kimi. The startup has secured multiple funding rounds this year to support production. Despite state media warnings about security risks, several local governments have incentivized OpenClaw development with equity financing, subsidies, free office space, and accommodation, encouraging “one-person companies” — small teams leveraging AI to rapidly build businesses. This aligns with Beijing’s recent five-year plan to boost domestic tech innovation. The surge in Chinese engagement with OpenClaw contributes to a global phenomenon—the AI agent project has surpassed Linux in GitHub stars, underscoring its popularity. Violoop’s He describes this moment as a breakthrough akin to “the 2022 ChatGPT moment, ” reflecting a long-suppressed demand for a truly helpful personal AI assistant. — Report by CNBC’s Anniek Bao, with images by Adek Berry/AFP/Getty Images.