Sam Altman’s rebranded Worldcoin ramps up iris-scanning

Worldcoin, the “proof of personhood” cryptocurrency project founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, said it was rebranding to World Network and ramping up efforts to scan every human’s iris using its ‘orb’ devices. This comes as the company aims to widen its worldwide mission.

The company describes its core offering, its World ID, as a “digital passport” to prove that its holder is a real human and would help distinguish them from AI chatbots online. The project focuses on using iris-scanning technology to create a global digital identity.

World Network revealed an updated version of its orb device at an event in San Francisco. Unveiling new features including 5G connectivity and enhanced privacy features, alongside new initiatives to improve access to the technology.

For easy access to the orb, a silver ball approximately the size of a bowling ball, purpose-built retail locations and a partnership with Latin American delivery service Rappi were also unveiled.

Co-founder and CEO of Tools for Humanity, the start-up behind the World project, Alex Blania, said the project’s old name “just doesn’t work anymore.” He highlighted the company’s interests to expand its identity beyond its original cryptocurrency mission, focusing more on its “human verification system”, the company said. Tools for Humanity also introduced its iris-scanning ‘orbs’ and other innovations.

How to get a World ID?

A customer has to sign up to do an in-person iris scan using World Network’s orb to get a World ID. In certain countries, those who sign up will receive cryptocurrency token called WLD. The company said over 6.9 million people have signed up since the project launched in July 2023.

The digital identity that the company’s World ID will offer will also extend access to crypto across the globe in exchange for participating in the project. The company aims to distribute its tokens fairly, combat fraud, and foster financial inclusion by linking biometric data to unique digital IDs.

The device is facing scrutiny over its data collection practices from critics worldwide. Earlier this year, Spain and Portugal issued temporary bans against the project while Argentina and Britain said they would examine World Network.