Sam Altman's Eyeball-Scanning Crypto Project Worldcoin Launches Global Digital Identity Platform
On Monday, June 24, Worldcoin, a cryptocurrency and digital ID project led by OpenAI chief Sam Altman, launched to create a "privacy-preserving" global identity system after years of development.
The goal is to build a reliable solution for distinguishing humans from AI online, facilitating global democratic processes, and significantly increasing economic opportunities.
To participate in the project, customers must use the "Orb," a biometric verification device, to scan their retinas and receive a unique "World ID" in return. This scan proves their "humanness," which is becoming increasingly valuable in a world influenced by artificial intelligence.
"Worldcoin consists of a privacy-preserving digital identity (World ID) and, where laws allow, a digital currency (WLD) received simply for being human," stated the cofounders. "We hope that, where the rules are less clear, such as in the US, steps will be taken so more people can benefit from both."
Founded in 2020, Worldcoin has received significant funding, totalling about $250 million, with prominent backers like Andreessen Horowitz, Khosla Ventures, and Reid Hoffman.
The identity technology and the Worldcoin token are now being rolled out internationally.
Users can download the World App, the startup's protocol-compatible wallet software, and visit an Orb to obtain their World ID.
Critics have raised concerns about using biometric data for identity verification, particularly the privacy risks associated with collecting and storing such data. Some see the project's incentivization of early users as an unusual bribe.
Additionally, given that blockchain technology typically aims to maintain anonymity, others question the premise of using Worldcoin to identify individuals in
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