Custom Personal Assistant with Persistent Memory
Mikhail Shcheglov built Saul, a sophisticated personal assistant using OpenClaw's open-source architecture but customized for his specific needs. After failed attempts with human personal assistants who required too much hand-holding and created more problems, he decided to build his own AI solution.
Technical Implementation and Architecture
Saul runs on a cost-efficient VPS server rather than expensive Mac mini hardware, making it accessible and isolated. The system uses Claude Code as the primary brain with a Max subscription, integrated with comprehensive Google Workspace access including emails and calendars. The bot communicates exclusively through Telegram for seamless interaction.
Advanced Capabilities and Self-Improvement
What makes Saul exceptional is its self-improving nature - it can code and upgrade itself directly from Telegram messages. Need Slack integration? It builds it in three minutes. The system features intelligent memory management that stores all conversations and compacts context when needed, eliminating the need to repeat personal information like passport or phone numbers.
Proactive Operations and Real-World Results
Saul operates proactively, reaching out first at agreed-upon intervals rather than waiting for commands. It handles complex tasks like hotel bookings, flight ticket searches, and automatic flight check-ins. The assistant manages meeting scheduling across multiple time zones, performs web research, and handles various administrative tasks that previously consumed significant time and energy. The total cost is just 24€/month for VPS hosting, compared to thousands of euros for human PA services with equivalent intelligence.