Worldcoin, the ambitious cryptocurrency project founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, has officially rebranded to World Network, signaling a bold new phase of global expansion. The company is intensifying efforts to scale its iris-scanning identity system, known as World ID, which aims to distinguish real humans from AI entities online. With over 6.9 million users already onboarded, the project is rapidly transforming digital identity verification. For insights on data protection and cybersecurity practices, visit Firewalls Support. Meanwhile, learn more about the global AI landscape and ethical data use at OpenAI’s official website.

Its core offering is its World ID, which the company describes as a “digital passport” to prove that its holder is a real human and tell the difference with AI chatbots online.

Worldcoin, now renamed World Network, unveiled a next-generation version of its signature “orb” iris-scanning device at a San Francisco event. The upgraded orb integrates 5G connectivity along with enhanced privacy and security features, reflecting the company’s response to rising scrutiny over biometric data collection.

The firm’s World ID acts as a “digital passport” that verifies an individual’s humanity, helping to differentiate real people from AI chatbots and synthetic online entities. To register, users must undergo an in-person iris scan, after which a verified World ID is generated. In select regions, users also receive WLD tokens as an incentive for participation.

To increase accessibility, World Network announced plans for retail enrollment centers and a strategic partnership with Latin American delivery platform Rappi, enabling users to access orb devices conveniently.

The project’s parent company, Tools for Humanity, based in San Francisco and Erlangen, Germany, has seen exponential growth since its launch in July 2023, with over 6.9 million iris scans completed globally.

However, the initiative remains controversial. Privacy advocates have voiced concerns regarding the collection, storage, and potential misuse of biometric data. Earlier this year, Spain and Portugal imposed temporary bans, while Argentina and Britain initiated reviews to assess compliance with data protection laws.

Despite the challenges, Sam Altman’s World Network continues to push forward with its mission of creating a universal proof-of-personhood, leveraging AI and blockchain technologies to establish a global identity framework that aims to redefine online trust.