World, the innovative biometric identity verification service backed by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, is set to launch in the United Kingdom this week, starting with a rollout in London on Thursday, June 12. Over the next few months, the service will expand to major cities such as Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Belfast, and Glasgow.
What is World and Its Orb Technology?
World, formerly known as WorldCoin, offers an alternative method for authentication using its Orb device, which scans users’ eyes. The Orb is designed to provide a secure, biometric-based solution to existing bot prevention measures like CAPTCHA and facial recognition. By scanning the iris and face, the technology prevents the misuse of deepfakes and ensures identity verification.
The company also rewards users with WLD cryptocurrency tokens upon verifying their identity via the Orb. Verified users can sign in to a range of applications, including Reddit, Discord, and Minecraft, using their World ID.
World’s Vision and Expansion Plans
Launched in 2021, World has already gained significant traction, with over 13 million verified users. It began its expansion in the US, with retail locations in cities such as Austin, Atlanta, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Now, as the company enters the UK, it aims to scale up its services in the growing AI-driven era, addressing concerns related to AI and its potential misuse online.
How World Addresses Privacy Concerns
Despite its success, World has faced concerns around privacy and data protection. In response, the company has stated that it encrypts the biometric data it collects and deletes original scans to ensure privacy. Additionally, World’s verification system operates on a decentralized network of smartphones, which the company believes is safer than cloud-based storage solutions.
Applications and Enterprise Demand for World’s Technology
World’s biometric technology, particularly the Orb, is receiving significant interest from enterprise clients and government organizations. This demand is driven by the growing risks of AI-generated fraud and scams, especially in sectors such as banking.
Adrian Ludwig, the chief architect of Tools for Humanity, a key contributor to World, highlighted that the technology is no longer just a theoretical concept but a real, practical tool in combating fraud and identity theft.
World is in discussions with regulators like the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) to ensure compliance with privacy laws and data protection standards. Ludwig stated that governments are increasingly interested in using World’s technology to enhance their identity verification systems, focusing on reducing fraud and improving security.
The Future of Biometric Identity Verification
As World continues to roll out its technology in the UK and beyond, its ability to address fraud, identity theft, and privacy concerns will likely play a crucial role in shaping the future of biometric identity verification.
With strong demand from both government and enterprise users, the company is poised to make a significant impact on how people authenticate their identities in an AI-driven world.
