The widely-used open source AI agent, OpenClaw, is now available as a native app for iPhones and iPads. This new iOS app allows users to integrate their devices with an existing gateway, enhancing security for chat, voice approvals, sharing, and automation tasks that are aware of the device’s capabilities.
Previously, iPhone and iPad users had to rely on Telegram or WhatsApp for mobile access to OpenClaw. This development marks a significant shift, offering a more seamless experience. OpenClaw operates as a self-hosted AI agent on Mac or PC, allowing users to connect API keys from AI services like Claude, OpenAI, or Gemini. This integration enables the AI model to interact with messaging apps, files, and web browsers to perform various tasks.
To utilize the iOS app, a gateway must be running on a local machine. The app provides several functionalities, including pairing with a private OpenClaw Gateway via QR code or setup code, chatting with the assistant from an iPhone, using real-time and background talk modes, reviewing gateway action approvals, and sharing text, links, and media directly from iOS. Users can also enable device capabilities such as the camera, screen, location, photos, contacts, calendar, and reminders. Additionally, the app offers push notifications and node status updates for connected workflows.
While OpenClaw is a powerful tool, it comes with risks, including susceptibility to prompt injection and the need for extensive system permissions on gateway devices. Initially known as Clawdbot, the tool was renamed following a complaint from Anthropic about its original name, which referenced Claude.
The app is available for free download from the App Store.
