The world of AI assistants is constantly evolving, and few have captured attention quite like Clawdbot. This free, open-source AI assistant rapidly gained traction on platforms like X, earning accolades from early adopters, AI superusers, and even minor internet celebrities. Its journey, however, has been anything but smooth, including a brief GitHub takeover by crypto scammers. Now, in a move many anticipated, the viral tool has officially shed its old identity, emerging as **Moltbot**.
The Inevitable Metamorphosis
For those closely following Clawdbot’s rise, the name change to Moltbot comes as no surprise. A significant portion of its user base relies on Claude, the sophisticated family of large-language models developed by Anthropic, to power the AI assistant. It was this close association that ultimately prompted the rebranding.
Peter Steinberger, the creator behind the popular AI assistant, confirmed the shift in a post on X and a new “lore” entry on GitHub. He revealed that the decision was made under what he diplomatically described as “polite” pressure from Anthropic, likely concerning trademark considerations. This strategic pivot ensures a clearer distinction and avoids potential conflicts with the underlying technology provider.
Molty Emerges: A New Mascot for a New Era
With a new name comes a new identity, and Moltbot is no exception. Previously, the AI assistant was represented by a “space lobster” mascot named Clawd. Embracing the theme of transformation, this crustacean has also undergone a change, now known as **Molty**.
Molty’s updated backstory playfully explains the transition:
For a while, the lobster was called Clawd, living in a Clawdbot. But in January 2026, Anthropic sent a polite email asking for a name change (trademark stuff). And so the lobster did what lobsters do best: It molted. Shedding its old shell, the creature emerged anew as Molty, living in a Moltbot. New shell, same lobster soul.
This rebranding extends beyond just names. Steinberger has already updated his GitHub repository, and the former clawd.bot website is in the process of being replaced by molt.bot, solidifying the new brand presence across all platforms.
A Name Under Scrutiny and a Familiar Face?
While the reasons for the name change are clear, the new moniker, “Moltbot,” hasn’t been universally praised. Some critics argue that “molting” isn’t the most appealing verb, suggesting it evokes less-than-glamorous imagery. The article humorously likens it to naming a company after “shedding, itching, or picking your nose.”
Furthermore, the new Moltbot mascot, Molty, has drawn comparisons. Observers have noted a striking resemblance between Molty and the iconic Android mascot, raising questions about potential design similarities and brand distinctiveness.
Despite these minor critiques, the transition to Moltbot marks a significant milestone for the popular AI assistant. It signifies its growth and maturity within the rapidly evolving AI landscape, adapting to industry realities while striving to maintain its unique appeal.
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