Microsoft is working on yet another OpenClaw-like agent

Microsoft is actively developing a new AI agent, referred to as 'Claw,' designed to bring OpenClaw-like autonomous task execution directly into its Microsoft 365 Copilot suite. According to reports from The Information, this enterprise-focused tool would function as an 'always-on' agent capable of completing multi-step tasks over extended periods. The move is a direct response to the viral popularity of the open-source OpenClaw project, which allows users to run local AI agents on their machines, notably driving a surge in sales of Apple's Mac Mini. Microsoft's version aims to offer the same powerful automation but with the critical addition of robust security controls and enterprise management features that the original, famously 'risky' OpenClaw lacks.

This new 'Claw' agent would join Microsoft's growing portfolio of agentic tools, including the cloud-based Copilot Cowork (powered by Anthropic's Claude) and Copilot Tasks. However, a key distinction is whether Microsoft's Claw will run locally on a user's hardware like OpenClaw or operate in the cloud like its other agents. A local execution model could offer significant privacy and latency benefits for enterprise customers. The company is expected to showcase this new capability or an upgrade to an existing tool at its Microsoft Build developer conference in June, signaling a major push to make Copilot a more proactive and autonomous workplace assistant.