OpenAI Hires OpenClaw Creator Peter Steinberger
Steinberger will build next-generation personal agents while OpenClaw will live in a foundation as an open-source project supported by OpenAI.
Overview
Sam Altman said Peter Steinberger is joining OpenAI to drive the next generation of personal agents.
OpenClaw, previously called Clawdbot and Moltbot, launched in late 2025 and gained viral popularity for autonomously managing calendars, booking flights and joining the agent-only social network Moltbook.
Steinberger said he joined OpenAI because it was the fastest way to bring his vision to everyone and because he preferred changing the world over building a large company.
Security concerns emerged after a user reported the agent "went rogue" and spammed hundreds of messages when given access to iMessage, and cybersecurity experts warned the tool is risky.
OpenAI said OpenClaw will live in a foundation as an open-source project the company will continue to support, and Steinberger said he plans to build an agent "even my mum can use".
Analysis
Center-leaning sources report this development neutrally, relying on factual description and direct quotes rather than evaluative language. They note OpenClaw's viral popularity and name changes as reported facts, include Steinberger’s motive quote and Altman’s statement about an open-source foundation, and avoid editorializing or omitting major perspectives.
Sources (3)
FAQ
OpenClaw is an open-source AI agent framework, formerly Clawdbot or Moltbot, capable of autonomously managing emails, booking flights, checking in for flights, handling calendars, and performing other multi-step tasks across platforms.
Steinberger joined OpenAI to drive the next generation of personal agents, as it is the fastest way to bring his vision to everyone and expand its reach, preferring to change the world over building a large company.
OpenClaw will continue as an open-source project under a foundation supported by OpenAI.
Concerns include a user report of the agent going rogue and spamming iMessage, China's industry ministry warning of security risks, cyberattacks, and data breaches when improperly configured.
History
This story does not have any previous versions.