Microsoft is developing another OpenClaw-style AI agent

Microsoft is currently testing new capabilities that resemble OpenClaw's functionality and plans to integrate them into its Microsoft 365 Copilot platform. The company confirmed to The Information that these enhancements are primarily designed for enterprise users, with a strong focus on enhanced security controls compared to the open-source OpenClaw system.

OpenClaw is known for running locally on a user's device, enabling the creation of AI agents that can perform tasks independently. If Microsoft proceeds with its own version of a Claw-style agent, it would represent another addition to the growing lineup of agent-based tools the company has introduced in recent months.

Earlier in March, Microsoft unveiled Copilot Cowork, a tool built to perform actions directly within Microsoft 365 applications rather than simply offering search results or chat-based assistance. Cowork uses Microsoft's proprietary "Work IQ" system, which tailors the experience across apps based on user behaviour and needs.

Microsoft has also incorporated Claude, developed by Anthropic, into Cowork following a partnership formed last year. While OpenClaw is compatible with multiple AI models, Claude has emerged as a preferred option for many users. However, Cowork itself operates in the cloud and does not run on local hardware.

In February, Microsoft introduced another tool, Copilot Tasks, designed to handle a variety of activities, from organising emails to managing travel plans and scheduling appointments. This tool, like Cowork, is also cloud-based and was initially released in preview form.

It remains unclear whether Microsoft's new Claw-like agent will operate locally on users' devices or incorporate key elements that have made OpenClaw popular. The company indicated that one of the defining characteristics of the new agent would be its ability to operate continuously, acting as a persistent version of Microsoft 365 Copilot that can execute multi-step processes over extended periods without direct user input.

While OpenClaw can run on Windows systems, many users have gravitated toward the Mac Mini as their preferred platform, contributing to a surge in demand for the compact device. This trend may provide additional motivation for Microsoft to develop a competing solution that aligns more closely with its ecosystem, while also focusing on improving security and enterprise readiness.

According to The Verge, Microsoft is expected to showcase this new Claw-style agent — or an upgraded version of its existing tools — at its upcoming Microsoft Build conference in June.

Although the company has not disclosed detailed specifications about the new system, including whether it will run locally or remain cloud-based, a spokesperson confirmed that experimentation is ongoing. Microsoft emphasised that its broader goal is to expand automation and orchestration capabilities across both enterprise and consumer AI products while maintaining strong standards around security, governance, and trust.

"Across our work, we are continuously experimenting as we bring broader orchestration and autonomy to our enterprise and consumer AI experiences while staying anchored in security, governance, and trust—all to reduce day-to-day friction so people can focus on what matters most," the spokesperson said in a written statement.