For buyers looking for a comfortable and reliable sedan under Rs 10 lakh, the Honda Amaze can be one of the strong options available in the Indian Market. The top-end variant, Amaze ZX CVT, is designed for those who want a premium experience without moving to a bigger and more expensive car segment
Iraq's state oil marketer SOMO has asked customers for crude oil lifting schedules within 24 hours. This follows reports that Iran has exempted Iraq from transit restrictions through the Strait of Hormuz. SOMO stated all loading terminals are operational and ready to execute lifting programs
Attention Delhiites! Residents of Delhi will face a major water supply disruption in the coming days. The Delhi Jal Board (DJB) has announced that water supply will be disrupted in several parts of the national capital on April 6 and April 7, 2026. According to the DJB
We often hear “just drink responsibly" or “it’s just one drink," but what happens when social drinking quietly crosses into dependence? In a deeply personal episode of a popular podcast actress Janhvi Kapoor didn’t hold back. While discussing addiction
Artemis II astronauts are setting a new distance record from Earth, surpassing Apollo 13's maximum range during their lunar flyby. The mission aims to map the moon's far side and will witness a total solar eclipse. Following their close encounter with the moon
How China fell for a lobster: What an AI assistant tells us about Beijing's ambition
"Are you a lobster?" is the first question Wang had for the BBC.
He had been so consumed recently by the AI assistant OpenClaw - which in China has earned the name "lobster" - that he wondered if he was talking to AI, rather than a journalist.
After being assured I was indeed human, the young IT engineer explained how he had "fallen deep into" AI and, especially, OpenClaw.
Driven by encouragement from the very top of China's leadership, the world's second-biggest economy has embraced artificial intelligence, sparking both curiosity and concern.
OpenClaw, built by Austrian developer Peter Steinberger, is an example of how this is playing out.
Because it is built on open-source data and tech, the code is available to those who want to customise it to work with Chinese AI models. And that is a huge advantage, because Western models such as ChatGPT and Claude are not accessible in China.
So OpenClaw stirred up a frenzy as more people experimented with its code.
Wang was one of them. He did not want to share his full name because of his side gig running an online shop selling digital gadgets on TikTok, which is banned in China.
When he first saw what his "lobster" - built on OpenClaw's code and altered for his use - could do, he said he was stunned.
Uploading products to the TikTok Shop is a grind: adding images, writing titles and descriptions, setting prices and discounts, signing up for campaigns, and messaging influencers. Usually he can manage about a dozen listings a day.
His "lobster", which he was still testing, can do up to 200 in just two minutes, he claimed. "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."
OpenClaw had already exploded in the global tech community - Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang called it "the next ChatGPT" and its developer Steinberger recently joined OpenAI.
But the enthusiasm that turned OpenClaw into something "trendy" was "uniquely Chinese", said Wendy Chang, from the MERICS think-tank.
Wang called OpenClaw "the AI era's answer for ordinary people".
Chinese tech giants seemed to agree because they were releasing apps built on OpenClaw. From the southern tech hub of Shenzhen to the capital of Beijing, hundreds of people - from secondary school students to retirees - were lining up outside the headquarters of Tencent and Baidu for free customised versions.
Many were curious to find out more about the "lobsters". Some users online said they used them to invest in stocks, claiming their "lobsters" analysed the best times to buy and sell, and even did the deed, despite the risk of costly errors. Others said the tools were great for multi-tasking and saving time.
Famous comedian and author Li Dan told millions of his followers on Douyin that he was so immersed in OpenClaw that he talked to his lobster in his dreams. Fu Sheng, chief executive of Cheetah Mobile, relentlessly shared how he "raised his lobster" on social media - a phrase users adopted to describe training the assistant for their requirements.
China's AI moment has been in the making for some time.
When the Chinese app DeepSeek burst onto the AI scene early last year, it seemed to catch a lot of people by surprise. It was also an open-source platform, developed by home-grown engineers from elite Chinese universities. And it came on the back of years of investments in developing crucial technology, including AI - which has only continued in the wake of DeepSeek's success.
What DeepSeek showed was the Chinese entrepreneurial appetite for seeking out opportunities in research and innovation, despite curbs on the import of advanced tech. And it also proved how eagerly people were willing to adopt open-source platforms.
So the stage was set for OpenClaw.
Its popularity did not escape the Chinese government. Several counties and cities provided incentives to encourage entrepreneurs to apply OpenClaw in their businesses - the eastern city of Wuxi offered up to five million yuan ($726,000; £549,000) for manufacturing-related applications, such as robots.
Everyone in China knows that the government sets the pace, and the government tells you where the opportunities are," said Rui Ma, founder of the Tech Buzz China newsletter. "It's practical for most people. That's probably a better plan, to just follow the government directive than to really try to figure it out on your own.
Once Beijing signals its priorities, the market follows. In the past few years, tech companies - large and small - have rushed into the AI race, supported by subsidised office space, cash rewards and loans.
From manufacturing to transport, healthcare to household electronics, companies are seeking to integrate AI into their products and operations. "That's the spirit of AI Plus," Chang says, referring to China's national strategy to integrate AI across industries. "Take AI, apply it everywhere."
The competition is fierce. In what Chinese media have dubbed the "Hundred Model War", more than 100 AI models have emerged since 2023, with only 10 still in contention.
Chinese AI platforms still lag behind Western competitors, experts say, though the gap is narrowing. That is why, for Chinese officials, promoting OpenClaw is a strategic move, according to Jenny Xiao.
But much of the initial hype has cooled as users begin to reckon with the costs involved - interacting with the agent requires spending tokens - as well as security concerns.
Last month, Beijing's cybersecurity authorities warned of serious risks linked to improperly installing and using OpenClaw. A growing number of government agencies have since banned staff from installing the tool. Soon, the trend shifted from offering to install the service to removing it.
Such contradiction is not unusual in China's top-down system, Ma says. Local governments often compete for approval from Beijing by ushering in tools that align with what the Communist Party leadership wants, and then pedal back as challenges arise.
"It's disorder with control," Ma says, adding that Beijing's intervention doesn't necessarily signal discouragement.
For one, AI startups could address a major challenge: youth unemployment rate of more than 16%. Many government incentives tied to OpenClaw - some with subsidies of up to 10 million yuan - mention "one-person companies", or start-ups run by an individual, with the help of AI.
"Who's the most likely to build a one-person company? Probably young people who face a tough job market," Xiao says.
And the fear of falling behind is acute in China, given the intense competition over jobs.
"Some say that in 2026, if you don't 'raise lobsters', you've already lost at the starting line," reads a commentary published by state newspaper People's Daily.
It is genuinely terrifying," said Jason, an IT programmer whose team is only hiring those who have experience using AI tools. "It's mostly people leaving, with very few new hires coming in.
Wang agrees that it's a scary time - "everyone could be replaced" - though he doesn't seem overly worried himself.
"I probably won't need to work, and this could become my full-time job," he said, referring to his TikTok business.
What if the "lobsters" can run their own shops, squeezing him out? "I'll use AI to find another business."
Source: BBC
Related Posts: Even Kejriwal’s Cut-Out Fell Sick Enrolment in govt schools fell by 1 Why I fell in love with a book called I Want to Die but I Want to Eat Tteokbokki When Govinda's Mother Panicked As He Fell While Boarding Mumbai’s Local Train Smartphone fell in water Indian man in Singapore says salary rose 5 times but happiness fell sharply Why Indian HEIs such as IITs fell in QS Asia 2016 despite rise in QS Global HC upholds compensation for man who fell to death from packed local train Family of biker who fell into Janakpuri pit alleges police negligence School enrolment fell by 1
Google Pixel 11 render leaks got everyone excited just a few days ago. Until now, we have seen a lot of leaks and rumours confirming what specifications and features the device will be carrying. High chances are that the phone will make a debut with Android 17
Just now
Mahindra Last Mile Mobility Limited (MLMML) has continued to hold its position as India’s largest electric commercial vehicle manufacturer in FY26, marking the fourth consecutive year at the top of the segment. The company’s steady performance reflects the growing adoption of electric vehicles
Just now
“Whenever I see his photo on my phone, it breaks my heart,” said Popi Gogoi, a 38-year-old homemaker from Assam’s Jorhat district. Gogoi was referring to Zubeen Garg, the beloved Assamese singer whose death by drowning in Singapore on September 19 plunged the state into mourning and led to
Just now
The grandson of noted artist Nandalal Bose, who illustrated the Constitution, has said that his and his wife’s names were left out of the West Bengal voter list after the special intensive revision of electoral rolls ahead of the Assembly elections, ETV Bharat reported on Friday
Just now
As the first policy since the staring of US-Israel and Iran war, the RBI would be much careful in communicating its position. New Delhi: As the West Asia situation is still evolving, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is likely to maintain status quo in the upcoming monetary policy committee (MPC)
Just now
Techie says laid-off big tech employees are making job hunt harder for freshers: ‘Not even getting rejection mails’In a Reddit post, the techie said months of preparation and applications to numerous companies have not brought a single response, not even rejection emails. Updated on: Apr 06
Just now
Gold has long enjoyed a reputation as a financial “safe haven” during stormy times. But over the past few months of geopolitical chaos and market panic, the precious metal has moved more like a roller coaster than a steady ship at anchor. In late January
Just now
Actor, singer and writer Piyush Mishra has opened up about his personal life and marriage, revisiting a difficult phase marked by emotional distance, infidelity and self-realisation. Drawing from his memoir Tumhari Auqaat Kya Hai, Piyush Mishra
Just now
Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan campaigns in his Dharmadam constituency. He highlights welfare schemes and development projects. Locals express mixed feelings about the upcoming elections. Vijayan faces a challenge from UDF's V P Abdul Rasheed. Dharmadam was declared free of extreme poverty
Just now
No three-language formula in Tamil Nadu till DMK in power, says MK Stalin; accuses Centre of ‘Hindi imposition’MK Stalin slammed the three-language formula under National Education Policy, saying it aims to impose Hindi on the people of Tamil Nadu. Updated on: Apr 06
Just now
Global oil prices have risen back above $110 (£83.38) a barrel after US President Donald Trump threatened to destroy critical infrastructure in Iran unless it allows ships to cross the Strait of Hormuz. On Monday morning in Asia, Brent crude rose by 1.6% to $110.85, while US-traded oil was up by 0
Just now
The ‘beautiful game’ turned violent for one last night in Jamshedpur. After Mohun Bagan’s 1-1 away draw against Jamshedpur FC in the ISL, a Mariners (MBSG) fan was allegedly attacked by locals outside the stadium. According to a report from Bangla outlet Sangbad Pratidin
Just now
Manchester City assistant manager Pep Lijnders has hinted midfielder Bernardo Silva's nine-year spell at the club will end this summer, saying "every good story comes to an end". The 31-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season. He has not yet signed an extension and has been linked with
Just now
Another LPG carrier, Green Asha, crosses Strait of Hormuz; only one vessel remainsAfter Green Asha’s exit, only one LPG vessel, Jag Vikram, remains in the region and is awaiting further instructions from the Indian Navy. Updated on: Apr 06, 2026 7:43 AM IST By Yogesh Naik Share via Copy link
Just now
Are you tired of mobile recharge plans that last only 24 or 28 days? If so, Reliance Jio has addressed this issue by introducing a new monthly recharge option. The telecom giant has launched a ₹339 plan that could be ideal for many users. This new offering is not only ₹10 cheaper than the
Just now
Union Home Minister Amit Shah has accused Kerala's ruling LDF and opposition UDF of ignoring alleged Waqf Board land encroachments in Ernakulam. He stated that the BJP government amended laws to curb such irregularities. Shah claimed around 400 acres belonging to Christian and Hindu families were
Just now
"Are you a lobster?" is the first question Wang had for the BBC. He had been so consumed recently by the AI assistant OpenClaw - which in China has earned the name "lobster" - that he wondered if he was talking to AI, rather than a journalist. After being assured I was indeed human
Just now
The Delhi Traffic Police has issued a detailed traffic advisory ahead of a planned protest march in North Delhi on April 5, 2026. The march, organised to highlight the poor condition of Main Burari Road (100 ft road), is expected to impact traffic movement in and around the Burari area
Just now
Satinder Sartaaj, who is receiving praise for his Dhurandhar 2 song Jaiye Sajana, recently met Sunny Deol. The meeting has drawn attention as Sartaaj continues to gain popularity and is also set to be associated with Sunny’s upcoming film Gabru
Just now
Hyundai Motor India has rolled out its April 2026 discount offers, bringing substantial benefits across its hatchback, sedan, SUV and EV portfolio. From the Grand i10 Nios and i20 to the Creta, Verna and Alcazar, total savings this month go up to Rs 1.10 lakh, depending on model year
Just now
Royal Challengers Bengaluru secured a commanding 43-run victory over Chennai Super Kings in an IPL encounter. RCB posted a formidable 250 for three, powered by explosive batting from Tim David, Rajat Patidar, and Devdutt Padikkal. The Super Kings faltered in their chase, finishing at 207 all out
Just now
Screen Awards 2026 full list of winners: Aditya Dhar’s Dhurandhar wins big, Ranveer Singh gets Best Actor trophyScreen Awards 2026 full list of winners: Aditya Dhar was named Best Director for film Dhurandhar, while Ranveer Singh took home the Best Actor (Male) trophy. Apr 6, 2026
Just now
The Pakistan women’s football team has pulled out of the upcoming SAFF Women’s Championship that was all set to be played in India, due to the continued political standoff between the two countries, according to a report in The Times of India. The tournament will now be played between six teams
Just now
NEET MDS 2026 form correction process is live at nbe.edu.in; applicants can review and submit changes till April 6. The National Board of Examinations in Medical Sciences (NBEMS) has opened the correction window for the National Eligibility cum Entrance Test for Master of Dental Surgery (NEET MDS)
Just now
Having not been able to celebrate an FA Cup semi-final appearance for 39 years, Leeds United supporters are now dreaming of their side lifting the trophy for the first time since 1972. They were put through a range of emotions in a breathtaking quarter-final at West Ham on Sunday
Just now
When the heat gets intense, your body needs natural ways to stay cool—and mint leaves can be your easiest fix. Packed with nutrients and known for its cooling properties, mint (thanks to its menthol content) helps regulate body temperature and keeps you refreshed from within
Just now
India has sent humanitarian aid to Afghanistan following devastating floods and earthquakes. The assistance includes essential relief materials. Natural disasters have claimed many lives and destroyed homes across several Afghan provinces. Residents are appealing for urgent help and improved
Just now
