Moltbot: Rebranding of the Open-Source AI Agent Formerly Known as Clawdbot
On January 27, 2026, the popular open-source AI agent project previously called Clawdbot officially rebranded to Moltbot. This change follows a trademark request from Anthropic regarding potential confusion with its Claude AI model.
The project, created by developer Peter Steinberger, gained rapid attention for its capabilities as a self-hosted, persistent AI assistant. Running on local hardware such as a Mac Mini, VPS, or other compatible systems, it enables users to automate a wide range of tasks through natural language instructions. Key features include:
Integration with messaging platforms such as Telegram, WhatsApp, iMessage, Slack, and Discord
Persistent memory across sessions for consistent context
Execution of complex, multi-step workflows, including email management, calendar scheduling, code deployment, GitHub interactions, home device control, and proactive monitoring (e.g., security audits, resource usage checks, and mention tracking)
Local-first architecture that prioritizes user privacy and data control
The original name, Clawdbot, drew inspiration from the "Clawd" mascot associated with Anthropic's Claude models. The rebrand to Moltbot embraces a biological metaphor: lobsters molt their shells to accommodate growth. The project team described the transition as a natural evolution, stating that the core identity and functionality remain unchanged, emphasizing that only the name and associated branding have been updated.
Key updates include:
New project name: Moltbot
Updated mascot: Molty (replacing Clawd)
New X handle: @moltbot
New website: molt.bot
Corresponding changes to the GitHub repository and documentation
The rebranding process occurred swiftly, with minimal disruption to users or ongoing development. The software repository, features, community contributions, and overall mission continue without alteration. Users who were following or deploying Clawdbot can transition by updating references to the new name.
This development underscores several points relevant to the current AI ecosystem:
Trademark considerations remain important, even for open-source projects built around playful references to existing technologies.
High-velocity open-source initiatives can adapt quickly to external requests while preserving momentum.
End-user adoption depends primarily on practical utility rather than branding.
Moltbot continues to represent an advancement in personal, agentic AI systems. By combining powerful language models (primarily Anthropic's Claude) with tool integration and local execution, it offers a capable, privacy-focused alternative to cloud-dependent assistants. For developers and users interested in self-hosted automation, the project remains available under its new identity at molt.bot and the associated GitHub organization.
The transition reflects growth rather than limitation. The same innovative lobster continues forward, but now with a fresh shell.
Learn more about the project formally known as Clawdbot here.