Open-source AI tool OpenClaw has surged in China, but regulators warn it may pose cybersecurity risks as some companies report rising operating costs.
An open-source artificial intelligence tool known as OpenClaw—nicknamed “lobster” by Chinese users—has surged in popularity across China’s tech community in recent months, becoming one of the country’s most talked-about AI trends. However, increasing operating costs and regulatory warnings about cybersecurity risks could slow the technology’s rapid expansion.
The Chinese regime has issued warnings that the software could pose cybersecurity and data-leak risks, highlighting the tension between Beijing’s push to accelerate AI development and its concerns over information security.
Analysts say the tool’s rapid rise highlights both the promise and the risks surrounding China’s push to expand its AI capabilities.
An AI-Powered ‘Digital Worker’
OpenClaw was first developed by Austrian software developer Peter Steinberger and released in November 2025. Its icon—a red lobster—quickly inspired Chinese users to nickname the software “lobster,” and the phrase “raising lobsters” has since become slang for running the program.
Unlike traditional AI chatbots, OpenClaw functions as an autonomous AI agent. After receiving user authorization, it can carry out complex tasks independently, such as reading documents, searching for information, writing code, and sending emails.
Since it can complete multi-step assignments with minimal human input, OpenClaw is often described by Chinese software engineers as a form of “digital worker.”
Major Chinese cloud providers—including Tencent, Alibaba Group, and Baidu—have already integrated OpenClaw deployment options into their platforms, thereby accelerating its adoption among developers and businesses.
Xue Zongzhi, a former procurement manager at Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company, said that OpenClaw essentially functions as a much more advanced version of a digital assistant.
“It’s like having your own personalized Siri,” he told The Epoch Times. “OpenClaw will help you ask questions and analyze your needs. It’s an algorithm that adapts to you and keeps learning.”
For example, instead of just reporting the weather forecast, OpenClaw could suggest activities, find nearby venues, and automatically make reservations, according to Xue.
