AI agent future is coming: OpenClaw creator

A new artificial intelligence tool called OpenClaw, created by Austrian programmer Peter Steinberger, is rapidly gaining attention in the tech world for its ability to perform real-life tasks. The tool can do things like check users in for flights or manage digital activities, making it feel like a personal assistant. Speaking in Tokyo, Steinberger said that while AI assistants are not yet common for everyday users, this year could mark a major shift as more “AI agents” begin to emerge.

OpenClaw works by connecting to existing AI models and allows users to give instructions through simple chat messages, similar to talking to a friend. Its popularity has grown quickly among developers and tech enthusiasts. Even Jensen Huang, the CEO of Nvidia, praised it as “the next ChatGPT,” highlighting its potential impact on the industry.

However, the rapid rise of such tools has also raised concerns. Experts warn that giving AI systems access to sensitive personal data, like bank details, could pose cybersecurity risks if the systems are hacked. Steinberger himself admitted that he is somewhat worried about misuse, especially as some companies are making it easier for users to install and run such tools without fully understanding the risks.

The tool has seen strong adoption in countries like China, where users are actively using it for tasks such as email organization and coding assistance. Steinberger noted that China is gaining momentum in the AI space, although he believes there is still a gap between the top AI models in the United States and China.

Interestingly, Steinberger developed OpenClaw in November while experimenting with AI coding tools to organize his own digital life. His work has already caught the attention of OpenAI, the company behind ChatGPT, and he has since joined them to help build the next generation of AI agents, according to CEO Sam Altman.

Despite the excitement, Steinberger emphasized that people need to better understand how AI works, including its limitations and risks such as making mistakes or being manipulated through malicious inputs. He compared AI tools to a hammer, saying that while they can be misused, it does not mean they should not be built.

He believes that AI is evolving quickly, with 2023 and 2024 being the years of ChatGPT, last year focused on coding agents, and 2026 likely becoming the year of general AI agents. According to him, making AI more accessible and engaging for people is important so that society can shape its future in a positive way.