AI agents
LobsterAI
LobsterAI (Youdao Lobster) is the first open-source desktop AI agent from a major Chinese tech company, developed by NetEase Youdao.
What is LobsterAI?
LobsterAI (Youdao Lobster) is the first open-source desktop AI agent from a major Chinese tech company, developed by NetEase Youdao.Built on the OpenClaw framework, it connects directly to your local files, terminal, browser, and projects, translating natural language instructions into concrete computer operations for end-to-end automation.
Supporting macOS (Apple Silicon & Intel) and Windows, LobsterAI prioritizes local data security and controllability.Session logs, configurations, and long-term memory are stored locally, with fully open-source code and auditable permissions.Users can instantly access top domestic models like DeepSeek, Kimi, GLM, and MiniMax without managing API keys, or run local models via Ollama for maximum privacy.
A standout feature is its ability to be controlled remotely via IM apps like WeChat, WeCom, DingTalk, and Lark.Whether you are away from your desk, you can send a message to trigger scheduled tasks, data analysis, or report generation, with results delivered directly back to your chat interface, enabling true 24/7 remote productivity.
Key features
- Remote Control vConnects with WeChat, WeCom, DingTalk, and Lark, allowing you to assign tasks and receive results from anywhere.
- Fully Open SourcReleased under the MIT license with transparent capabilities, auditable permissions, data, and execution paths for trust and security.
- Local Data StoraSessions, configs, and memory stay on your device; custom API keys are never uploaded, and tool calls are gated and logged.
- Multi-Model IntePre-integrated with DeepSeek, Kimi, GLM, and MiniMax, while supporting custom API keys or local models via Ollama.
- Full-Scenario AuHandles app development, data analysis, scheduled briefings, research reports, web operations, and document processing.
- Expert KitsOne-click installation of skill sets for Product Managers, Marketing, and Data roles to quickly enable specialized workflows.
How to use it
- Download the installer for your system (macOS Apple/Intel or Windows) from the official website and complete the installation.
- Launch LobsterAI and choose between the default official models or configure your own API keys/Ollama local models.
- Configure an IM bot (such as WeChat or DingTalk) in the settings to bind your phone for remote command capabilities.
- Create a new task, such as 'Analyze this local Excel file and generate a visual report,' to observe the agent in action.
- Install 'Expert Kits' or set up scheduled tasks as needed to automate your daily workflow.
Where it fits
- Remote Work CollSend commands via WeChat while traveling to have your office PC organize meeting notes, send emails, or update project status.
- Automated Data RSet scheduled tasks to automatically read sales spreadsheets, generate key metric charts, and push them to your phone daily.
- Lightweight AppDescribe a requirement (e.g., 'create an inventory management page'), and the agent writes the code and runs a usable HTML app locally.
Pricing and free quota
The client is free to download and open-source.Using your own API keys incurs costs from the model provider; official point-based subscription plans are available, with a new subscriber offer of 1000 points for ¥0.01 and 50% off the first month's renewal.For detailed pricing, please refer to the official website.
Who it is for
- Enterprise employees prioritizing data privacy and security
- Product managers and analysts seeking office automation
- Freelancers needing remote computer task management
- Developers and tech enthusiasts
FAQ
Which operating systems does LobsterAI support?
It supports macOS (both Apple Silicon and Intel chips) and Windows.You can select the appropriate installer on the download page.
Where are my data and API keys stored?
Sessions, configurations, and memory are currently stored locally on your computer.Custom API keys are stored only on the local device and are not uploaded, with gated logging for tool calls.
Can I control LobsterAI remotely from my phone?
Yes.After configuring an IM bot, you can send tasks and receive results via WeChat, WeCom, DingTalk, or Lark, enabling 24/7 remote control.
What is the relationship between LobsterAI and OpenClaw?
LobsterAI is built on the open-source OpenClaw agent framework, integrating its ecosystem of Skills, tools, and plugins, while adding a user-friendly desktop client and IM remote capabilities.