Meta’s Manus drops desktop AI: is this the end of cloud-only agents?

Meta-owned artificial intelligence start-up Manus has introduced a desktop application that moves its AI agent beyond the cloud and directly onto personal computers.

The launch shifts how autonomous agents operate, allowing them to interact with files, apps, and workflows stored locally on user devices.

Until now, Manus’ general-purpose agent functioned through a web interface, executing complex, multi-step tasks remotely.

With the new Manus Desktop app, users can run these agents closer to their data while expanding use cases across everyday computing environments and reducing reliance on constant internet connectivity.

Local AI agents move beyond cloud

At the centre of the rollout is a feature called My Computer, which enables Manus agents to access and operate within a user’s device environment.

This includes reading, analysing, and editing files, as well as launching or controlling applications.

The update reflects a broader shift in the AI industry, where developers are building agents that operate directly on local machines rather than through remote servers.

This approach may improve speed, responsiveness, and privacy in certain computing tasks.

Openclaw competition drives agent race

The move places Manus in closer competition with OpenClaw, an open-source AI agent developed by Austrian software engineer Peter Steinberger.

OpenClaw has gained attention for being freely available under an MIT licence and for running directly on users’ devices. Interest in OpenClaw has accelerated momentum in the AI agent space.

Steinberger’s hiring by OpenAI adds another layer to the competitive landscape.

Meta, through its acquisition of Manus, is pushing into the same space with a paid subscription model while scaling its broader AI ecosystem.

New features expand automation tasks

Manus said its desktop agent can handle a range of tasks beyond file access.

Users can ask it to organise large sets of images stored locally, manage documents, or interact with coding tools to build applications.

These local capabilities build on Manus’ existing integrations with services such as Google Calendar, Gmail, and other third-party platforms.

The combination expands what its agent can achieve and supports more seamless automation across digital workflows.

Security concerns emerge over local access

The expansion into local device access has raised concerns about privacy and security.

Granting AI agents control over files and applications could introduce risks if safeguards are not properly implemented.

Manus said its system includes permission controls designed to keep users in charge.

Actions require explicit approval, with options such as Allow Once or Always Allow, depending on the level of trust and frequency of tasks.

The desktop launch follows Meta’s December 29, 2025 announcement that it would acquire Manus for about $2 billion.

The deal is part of Meta’s strategy to integrate autonomous agent technology across its products, including the Meta AI assistant.

Manus, originally founded in China before relocating to Singapore, has also attracted scrutiny from Chinese regulators reviewing the transaction for potential breaches of technology control rules.