How to Connect OpenClaw to WeChat on Debian 12 – Step‑by‑Step Guide

Prerequisites

WeChat iOS version 8.0.70 or later (ClawBot currently supports only iOS).

OpenClaw installed on the Debian 12 machine where the plugin will be installed.

Installation command

Run on the OpenClaw host:

npx -y @tencent-weixin/openclaw-weixin-cli@latest install

The command downloads the WeChat ClawBot plugin, installs it, and displays a QR code in the terminal.

QR‑code binding

In the iOS WeChat app, use “Scan” to read the QR code shown in the terminal. Confirm the prompt by tapping “Add” or “Authorize”. Successful authorization redirects to the ClawBot plugin page, indicating the binding is complete.

Verification

Locate the ClawBot conversation (or a “WeChat Customer Service” entry) in the WeChat chat list and send a test message such as “Hello” or “/status”. Receiving a reply confirms that OpenClaw is connected to WeChat.

Important notes

24‑hour keep‑alive: ClawBot can receive messages only within 24 hours after the last interaction; periodic “wake‑up” messages are required to maintain connectivity.

Model configuration: OpenClaw must have a valid model API key (e.g., Tencent Hunyuan, DeepSeek). Without it, the bot can receive messages but cannot generate replies.

Feature limits: ClawBot does not support group chats and does not automate actions in the WeChat account.

Troubleshooting

No response after scanning: verify the iOS WeChat version meets the 8.0.70 requirement.

Command errors: ensure the terminal has internet access; a proxy or VPN may be required.

QR code not displayed: re‑run the installation command.