How China fell for a lobster: What an AI assistant tells us about Beijing’s ambition

How China Fell for a Lobster: Insights into Beijing’s AI Ambition

Wang’s first question to the BBC was unexpected: “Are you a lobster?” His fascination with OpenClaw, an AI assistant known as “lobster” in China, had led him to question whether he was conversing with a machine or a human. After confirming his own humanity, Wang described how he had become deeply immersed in the AI tool, which he now used to manage his digital gadget sales on TikTok. The platform, banned within China, made him cautious about revealing his identity.

OpenClaw, developed by Austrian engineer Peter Steinberger, has become a cornerstone of China’s AI adoption. Its open-source foundation allows seamless integration with local models, offering a distinct edge over Western counterparts like ChatGPT and Claude, which are less accessible in the region. This adaptability fueled rapid experimentation, creating a surge of interest among users. Wang, one such user, described his experience with the tool as both daunting and thrilling.

“It’s scary, but also exciting. My lobster is better than I am at this. It writes better, and can instantly compare my prices with every competitor—something I would never have time to do,” he said.

For Wang, the AI assistant transformed his workflow. Managing TikTok Shop listings, which involve uploading products, crafting titles, setting prices, and engaging influencers, used to take hours. His customised version of OpenClaw, still in testing, could handle up to 200 items in two minutes. The efficiency was unmatched, yet the tool’s capabilities raised questions about the future of human roles in automation.

China’s enthusiasm for AI is not new. Last year, the emergence of DeepSeek, an open-source platform developed by engineers from top Chinese universities, surprised many. It underscored a growing appetite for innovation despite restrictions on advanced technology imports. This momentum paved the way for OpenClaw, which quickly became a symbol of the nation’s AI aspirations.

Government support played a pivotal role. Local authorities offered financial incentives to businesses adopting OpenClaw, such as Wuxi’s five million yuan ($726,000; £549,000) for manufacturing applications like robotics. Rui Ma, founder of Tech Buzz China, noted the clarity of direction provided by Beijing: “Everyone in China knows that the government sets the pace, and the government tells you where the opportunities are.” This top-down approach resonated with users, from students to retirees, who flocked to tech giants like Tencent and Baidu for free customised versions.

Some users claimed OpenClaw aided stock trading, analysing market trends and executing trades, though risks remained. Others praised its ability to streamline tasks and save time. Even celebrities, like comedian Li Dan, shared how deeply integrated the tool had become, talking to his “lobster” in dreams. The phrase “raising your lobster”—used to describe training the AI for specific needs—became a cultural touchstone, reflecting both the tool’s utility and China’s embrace of AI-driven efficiency.

As OpenClaw gained traction, it highlighted a broader trend: China’s pursuit of self-reliance in AI, leveraging open-source frameworks to bypass foreign limitations. The country’s ambitions are clear, with a blend of grassroots experimentation and state-backed innovation driving progress. Beijing’s role in shaping this landscape remains central, ensuring the AI revolution serves both economic and societal goals.