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Microsoft Tests OpenClaw-Like Features for Microsoft 365 Copilot, Targets Enterprise Security

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Microsoft Tests OpenClaw-Like Features for 365 Copilot

Microsoft confirmed it is testing ways to integrate OpenClaw-like functionality into Microsoft 365 Copilot, with a focus on enterprise customers and enhanced security controls.

According to reports from The Information and The Verge, Microsoft is developing new agentic capabilities for its productivity AI. The company confirmed the testing to The Information, stating the new features are intended for enterprise customers and would include enhanced security controls.

A reported key feature is an agent capable of operating continuously to execute multistep tasks over extended periods. According to The Verge, Microsoft may demonstrate this development at its Build conference in June.

Core Development Details

  • Microsoft confirmed to The Information that it is testing ways to integrate OpenClaw-like functionality into Microsoft 365 Copilot.
  • The development is aimed at enterprise customers, with Microsoft stating the features would offer better security controls than the open-source OpenClaw agent.
  • A main feature described by Microsoft is a version of 365 Copilot designed to operate continuously, capable of taking actions and completing multistep tasks over long periods.
  • The Verge reports that Microsoft is expected to showcase this new "Claw" or an upgraded version of an existing tool at its Microsoft Build developer conference in June.
  • It is not yet clear whether Microsoft's implementation would run locally on a user's computer or would adopt other features from OpenClaw. The Information has requested comment from Microsoft on how the new agent fits with its other tools and will provide updates upon receipt.

Background on OpenClaw

  • OpenClaw is an open-source tool that runs locally on a user's computer and can create automated agents to perform tasks.
  • While the OpenClaw project can run on Windows machines, the Mac Mini has been a commonly used platform for its users.
  • OpenClaw can work with multiple AI models, though Anthropic's Claude model is reportedly the preferred choice for many users of the open-source project.

Related Microsoft Agent Developments

Microsoft has announced several other agentic tools in recent months:

  • Copilot Cowork: Announced in March 2024, this tool is designed to take actions within Microsoft 365 applications, powered by "Work IQ" technology. It runs in the cloud and can use Anthropic's Claude model as an option. Microsoft partnered with Anthropic in late 2023.
  • Copilot Tasks: Introduced in February 2024 and released in preview, this agent is also designed to complete tasks. Marketing materials suggested it was geared toward prosumers for tasks like organizing email and travel. It runs in the cloud.