OpenClaw Fails to Deliver on Microsoft's AI Promises

Microsoft recently showcased OpenClaw as the future of Windows at its Build keynote in June. However, after testing the native OpenClaw companion app for Windows, it seems that the experimental, open-source AI tool is not yet ready for the mainstream.

The installation process appears straightforward at first but quickly becomes technical, requiring users to set up a model provider and connect an API key or pay per token. Most options require this, except for using a ChatGPT subscription, which simplifies the setup process.

Despite the ease of setting up OpenClaw with Microsoft's Execution Containers (MXC) sandbox technology, which gives granular control over what the agent can access, the app remains complex and nonintuitive. Agents are increasingly expensive to run, and other AI tools like ChatGPT and Claude have now integrated seamlessly with PCs.

Apple's macOS Golden Gate continues to integrate AI in practical and user-friendly ways, such as with new Siri features and vibe-coded browser extensions in Safari. Microsoft might be targeting developers and experienced AI enthusiasts with OpenClaw, but if it wants regular users on board, the company has significant work ahead.