OpenClaw is a personal AI assistant designed to run on user devices, integrating with popular messaging platforms like WhatsApp, Telegram, Slack, and Discord. It operates on macOS, iOS, and Android, and features a live Canvas for user interaction. The setup process involves running a terminal wizard that guides users through configuring the gateway, channels, and skills. It supports Node.js version 22 or higher and can be installed using npm, pnpm, or bun. For long-context tasks, the recommended model is Anthropic Pro/Max combined with Opus 4.6. The assistant prioritizes security, treating incoming direct messages from unknown senders as untrusted. Users must approve new senders through a pairing process, which establishes a local allowlist. OpenClaw’s architecture includes a control plane called the Gateway, which manages sessions, channels, and events. It offers features like multi-channel inboxes, voice wake functionality, and agent-driven visual workspaces. Users can customize their experience through bundled and managed skills. For developers, OpenClaw supports a robust CLI with commands for sending messages and interacting with the assistant. The installation process accommodates multiple platforms and encourages using pnpm for builds from source. The assistant connects to a variety of messaging services, providing flexibility in how users can communicate and control their environment. Overall, OpenClaw aims to deliver a fast, local, and always-on personal assistant tailored to individual needs while maintaining a strong security posture.