Microsoft Explores Integrating OpenClaw-like Features into Microsoft 365 Copilot

Microsoft is exploring the integration of features similar to the open-source tool OpenClaw into its Microsoft 365 Copilot. The company confirmed to The Information that these new capabilities are intended for enterprise customers and will feature improved security controls compared to the open-source OpenClaw agent, which is known for its inherent risks.

OpenClaw is designed to run locally on a user's computer, enabling the creation of agents that can perform tasks on behalf of the user. If Microsoft develops its own version of such a local agent, it would add to the company's recent announcements of agentic tools.

In March, Microsoft unveiled Copilot Cowork, an agent designed to execute actions within Microsoft 365 applications, going beyond simple search results or chat functionalities. Cowork utilizes Microsoft's proprietary 'Work IQ' technology, an intelligence layer aimed at personalizing the user experience across Microsoft 365 apps. Additionally, Cowork is powered by Anthropic's Claude, following Microsoft's partnership with the AI lab late last year. While OpenClaw supports multiple models, Claude is a popular choice for users of the open-source project. However, Cowork operates in the cloud, not on local hardware.

Earlier, in February, Microsoft introduced Copilot Tasks, another agent designed for task completion, which was released in preview. Marketing materials suggested this agent was aimed more at prosumers, with capabilities ranging from email organization to managing travel and appointments, tasks that extend beyond the Microsoft 365 suite. Like Cowork, Copilot Tasks also runs in the cloud.

It remains unclear whether Microsoft's potential new Claw agent will operate locally or simply incorporate other favored features of OpenClaw. Microsoft did indicate to The Information that a key aspect of this agent would be its 'always working' nature, essentially a version of 365 Copilot capable of taking actions at any time, including completing multistep tasks over extended periods.

While the open-source OpenClaw can function on Windows machines, the Mac Mini has become a preferred platform for its users, leading to a surge in sales for the compact desktops. This suggests that beyond security, Microsoft may have several strategic reasons for pursuing its own version of the agent.

The company is anticipated to showcase this new Claw, or an updated version of its existing similar tools, at the Microsoft Build conference scheduled for June, according to The Verge.

Microsoft has been contacted for comment regarding how the new Claw agent fits within its ecosystem of existing agents, and the story will be updated upon receiving a response.