Popular open source AI agent OpenClaw is expanding to iPhone and iPad with a new native iOS app. OpenClaw for iOS can be used with an existing gateway as a secure node for chat, voice approvals, sharing, and device-aware automation.
The iOS app replaces iPhone and iPad workarounds that involved using Telegram or WhatsApp for on-the-go access.
OpenClaw is a self-hosted AI agent that runs on a Mac or PC. Users can connect an API key from Claude, OpenAI, Gemini or other AI services, linking the model to the content on the gateway machine. OpenClaw allows an AI model to access email apps, files, web browsers, and more so it can perform tasks.
To use the new iOS app, you will need a gateway running on a local machine. The App Store description states that the iOS app can be used in several ways.
- Associate it with your private OpenClaw gateway by QR code or setup code
- Chat with your assistant from iPhone
- Use real-time and background chat mode
- Review Gateway action approvals from your iPhone
- Share text, links and media directly from iOS to OpenClaw
- Activate device features such as camera, screen, location, photos, contacts, calendar and reminders whenever you want
- Receive push wake-ups and node status updates for connected workflows
OpenClaw is a useful tool, but it comes with risks. It is likely to be injected quickly and requires extensive system permissions on gateway devices.
OpenClaw started out as Clawdbot, as the initial version created by Peter Steinberger used Claude. Anthropic complained about the name, prompting a renaming.
The app can be downloaded for free from the App Store. (Direct link)
