OpenClaw is a popular open-source AI tool in China that can autonomously complete tasks for users by taking over devices. Early adopters are leveraging this technology as a business opportunity amid its rapid rise in popularity.

OpenClaw is a self-hosted AI agent that integrates with various messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack, and Discord, allowing users to execute shell commands, browse the web, read and write files, and call APIs through chat interactions. Due to its extensive access requirements, including shell execution and file system access, it is advised not to run OpenClaw on a primary machine.

OpenClaw should be installed on a separate computer, such as a Mac Mini, and requires its own phone number for dual eSIM to receive 2FA SMS codes. It must not have its own iCloud account or capabilities to write, delete, or send emails or calendar entries.