Sam Altman has announced that OpenClaw creator Peter Steinberger is joining OpenAI to help build the next generation of AI-powered personal agents. Sharing the update on X, Altman described Steinberger as a “genius” with bold ideas about smart agents that can interact with each other and perform useful tasks for people.
Steinberger is best known for creating OpenClaw, an open-source AI agent that gained attention for its autonomous abilities. Launched in November under earlier names like Clawdbot and Moltbot, OpenClaw developed a strong following. The tool can clear email inboxes, book restaurant reservations, check in for flights, and even connect with apps such as WhatsApp and Slack to receive commands.
Altman confirmed that OpenClaw will continue as an open-source project under a foundation structure, with OpenAI supporting its development. He added that the future of AI will be “extremely multi-agent,” suggesting that multiple AI systems will collaborate to complete complex tasks.
In a blog post titled OpenClaw, OpenAI and the future, Steinberger said joining OpenAI allows him to work at the frontier of AI research. His goal, he wrote, is to build an AI agent simple and safe enough for anyone — even his mother — to use. He emphasised that teaming up with OpenAI gives him access to advanced models and research needed to scale his vision globally.
However, the move comes amid security concerns. Reports suggest that an OpenClaw agent recently “went rogue” after being granted access to iMessage, allegedly sending hundreds of spam messages. Cybersecurity experts warn that tools combining private data access, external communication, and exposure to untrusted content pose serious risks.
Despite concerns, OpenAI’s latest hire signals its strong push toward smarter, more capable AI personal agents.
