How China fell for a lobster: What an AI assistant tells us about Beijing’s ambition
How China Fell for a Lobster: AI’s Rise and the Role of OpenClaw
The first question Wang posed to the BBC was “Are you a lobster?” This AI assistant, known as OpenClaw in China, had consumed his thoughts so completely that he questioned whether he was conversing with a machine or a human. After confirming he was indeed a person, the young IT engineer revealed how deeply he had become entangled with OpenClaw, which he described as a tool that has reshaped his workflow.
The Open-Source Advantage
OpenClaw, developed by Austrian programmer Peter Steinberger, has become a focal point in China’s AI landscape. Its open-source nature allows users to modify the code to integrate it with local AI systems, offering a distinct edge over Western counterparts like ChatGPT and Claude. These foreign models are not freely accessible in China, making OpenClaw a more adaptable solution for domestic applications.
Wang’s online venture, selling digital gadgets on TikTok, kept him cautious about revealing his full name. But when he first witnessed the capabilities of his customised version of OpenClaw, he was amazed. The AI assistant could handle up to 200 product listings in just two minutes, far surpassing his manual capacity of about a dozen daily. “It’s both frightening and thrilling,” he said. “My lobster outperforms me at this. It writes with precision and instantly compares prices across competitors—something I’d never manage in the same time.”
A Trend That Captured the Imagination
OpenClaw’s surge in popularity wasn’t accidental. It tapped into a cultural shift where Chinese users, from students to retirees, eagerly adopted the tool. The enthusiasm, as Wendy Chang of MERICS noted, was “uniquely Chinese,” reflecting a blend of curiosity and practicality. For Wang, it was a lifeline, but others saw even greater potential. Some claimed their “lobsters” assisted in stock trading, making decisions based on data analysis. Despite risks, these users embraced the AI’s capabilities for efficiency.
Even public figures joined the trend. Comedian and writer Li Dan shared on Douyin that he conversed with his OpenClaw assistant in dreams, while Fu Sheng, CEO of Cheetah Mobile, frequently posted about “raising his lobster” on social media—a phrase that became a cultural shorthand for personalising AI tools.
Government Support and Strategic Push
China’s AI momentum has been building for years. The emergence of DeepSeek, a Chinese-developed app, surprised many earlier this year, showcasing the nation’s growing innovation in technology. Built by engineers from top universities, DeepSeek’s success spurred further investment in AI, creating fertile ground for OpenClaw’s rise.
Government backing played a crucial role. Local authorities in cities like Wuxi offered financial incentives, including up to five million yuan, to businesses using OpenClaw for tasks such as manufacturing robots. “Everyone knows the government sets the direction,” said Rui Ma, founder of Tech Buzz China. “Following their lead makes sense. It’s easier to align with their vision than navigate the tech world alone.”
With Beijing’s signals, the AI revolution gained traction. OpenClaw’s widespread adoption highlights how China is leveraging open-source platforms to drive innovation, creating a unique ecosystem where technology and ambition converge.
