Meta-Backed Manus Brings AI Agent To Desktop With New App

by THEFUTURE.TEAM

March 18, 2026

Introduction

Manus introduced a desktop application that enables its AI agent to operate directly on user devices. The release follows the company’s acquisition by Meta in December 2025 and expands functionality beyond the previous cloud-based model. This update allows closer integration with local files, applications and operating systems.

Bridging The Gap Between Cloud And Local Systems

A new feature called “My Computer” enables direct interaction with files, tools and software on a user’s device. Earlier versions relied on a web interface and were limited to cloud-based execution. Local deployment supports multi-step workflows that require direct system access, including more complex task automation.

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Competitive Landscape And Market Implications

Market positioning places Manus alongside other AI agent frameworks such as OpenClaw, developed by Peter Steinberger. Interest in AI agents has grown as companies expand automation tools for enterprise use. Unlike open-source alternatives, Manus operates as a paid service with a focus on system-level integration and enterprise applications.

Enhanced Capabilities And Security Measures

Functionality includes reading, editing and organising local files, as well as launching and controlling applications. Integration with services such as Google Calendar and Gmail extends usage across platforms. User approval is required before any action is executed on a local device, maintaining control over system access.

Strategic Acquisition And Future Outlook

Meta completed the acquisition of Manus on December 29, 2025, integrating the team into its AI operations. Plans include incorporating the technology into a broader product ecosystem, including future AI assistant tools. Regulatory attention has focused on potential technology transfer issues linked to China-based operations. Meta stated that the acquisition complies with applicable laws and expects the review process to be resolved.

Conclusion

Expansion to desktop environments extends AI agent functionality beyond cloud-based systems. Ongoing development reflects wider industry efforts to integrate AI tools into everyday workflows.

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Meta’s $18 Billion Settlement Limits State Claims Over Children’s Data

by News Editor

August 28, 2026

Meta’s $18 billion settlement with attorneys general from 29 U.S. states includes a provision limiting future state claims over the company’s use of children’s data for age-assurance systems.

Under the agreement, Meta must develop, train and begin testing a system to identify users under 13 within a year of the settlement taking effect. The company already uses AI-based age-detection tools, although the agreement does not require the new system to use AI.

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States Agree To Limits On Future Claims

The Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA) generally restricts the collection and retention of personal data from children under 13. Under the settlement, the 29 state attorneys general agreed not to bring past, present or future claims under COPPA or similar state laws over the specified use of children’s data.

Meta will not be permitted to use information from users under 13 for advertising, marketing or algorithmic optimisation.

Federal Enforcement Remains Unclear

COPPA is primarily enforced by the Federal Trade Commission, which is not a party to the agreement. That leaves open the possibility of separate federal action over how Meta collects or uses children’s data.

Another issue is whether Meta can keep age-assurance data isolated from its other systems. An independent auditor will monitor compliance, but the settlement does not fully specify what data Meta can retain for training, how long it can be stored or whether derived insights can be used elsewhere.

Legal Risks Remain

Joshua Wurtzel, a partner at Schlam Stone & Dolan, said states could still pursue claims if Meta uses the data outside the settlement’s limits. Such cases could depend on how those limits are interpreted.

Peter Jackson, a data and intellectual property attorney at Greenberg Glusker, said the provision could “disincentivize future enforcement actions.”

The agreement gives Meta greater legal certainty around using children’s data for age assurance, but questions remain over federal enforcement, data retention and secondary use.

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