How China fell for a lobster: What an AI assistant tells us about Beijing’s ambition
How China Fell for a Lobster: What an AI Assistant Reveals About Beijing’s Vision
When Wang first greeted the BBC with the query, “Are you a lobster?” it was more than a casual question—it reflected a profound shift in China’s relationship with artificial intelligence. The AI tool OpenClaw, known domestically as “lobster,” had consumed his thoughts to the point where he questioned whether he was conversing with a machine or a human. After confirming he was speaking to a journalist, he shared how deeply he had immersed himself in OpenClaw’s capabilities, describing it as a transformative force in his work.
The Lobster’s Appeal
OpenClaw, developed by Austrian programmer Peter Steinberger, has become a cornerstone of China’s AI ecosystem. Unlike Western platforms such as ChatGPT and Claude, OpenClaw operates on open-source data and technology, allowing users to tailor it for integration with local AI systems. This adaptability has fueled its rapid adoption, creating a surge of interest among developers and everyday users alike.
“It is 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.”
Wang’s story is emblematic of how OpenClaw has reshaped tasks once seen as tedious. Managing an online shop selling digital gadgets on TikTok, a platform restricted in China, he found the AI assistant’s speed and precision invaluable. While he typically handled around a dozen product listings daily, his customised version of OpenClaw could complete up to 200 in just two minutes. This efficiency, however, came with a twist: the tool’s ability to analyse competitors in real time left him both amazed and slightly unsettled.
From Curiosity to Frenzy
OpenClaw’s popularity exploded within China’s tech circles, drawing attention from figures like Nvidia’s Jensen Huang, who dubbed it “the next ChatGPT.” Its developer, Steinberger, later joined OpenAI, further cementing its status as a global phenomenon. Yet, the fervor surrounding it was uniquely Chinese, according to Wendy Chang of the MERICS think-tank. The term “lobster” became a cultural shorthand, symbolising both innovation and the government’s strategic influence.
From Shenzhen’s bustling tech scene to Beijing’s corporate corridors, hundreds of individuals—from students to retirees—queued for free customised versions of the AI. Many were eager to explore its potential, while others used it for high-stakes purposes, like stock trading. Online testimonials claimed the tool could identify optimal buying and selling moments, though some warned of the risks of costly miscalculations.
A Government-Driven Revolution
China’s embrace of AI has been a gradual yet deliberate process. The rise of DeepSeek, a groundbreaking Chinese app, earlier this year demonstrated the nation’s growing confidence in developing cutting-edge technology. This open-source platform, created by engineers from prestigious universities, underscored a broader trend of investing in innovation despite limitations on imported advanced systems. The success of DeepSeek only intensified the push for AI integration, creating a fertile ground for tools like OpenClaw.
Local governments have also played a pivotal role, offering financial incentives to businesses adopting AI solutions. In Wuxi, for instance, counties provided up to five million yuan for manufacturing applications such as robotics. “Everyone in China knows the government sets the pace,” noted Rui Ma, founder of Tech Buzz China. “It’s practical for most people. Following directives is often smarter than figuring things out independently.”
As Beijing continues to signal its priorities, the lobster metaphor persists—symbolising not just a tool, but a new era of technological ambition. For Wang and others, it represents the intersection of efficiency, creativity, and the quiet power of state-driven innovation.
