Tools for Humanity’s Focus on Worldcoin Expansion

Tools for Humanity CEO Alex Blania discussed Worldcoin’s current focus on mass distribution of iris-scanning “Orbs” at Korea Blockchain Week 2024 in Seoul. He emphasized that like other successful networks, Worldcoin becomes useful at scale, highlighting the importance of global distribution and user verification.

Worldcoin, co-founded by Blania and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, provides “World IDs” to individuals who scan their irises for proof of identity, aiming to safeguard against potential AI-related issues. Currently, over 6.5 million verified World IDs exist in more than 160 countries.

Next Generation Orbs

Blania hinted at upcoming announcements regarding the next generation Orb device, which focuses on operational model changes that may significantly affect their use. The project is also exploring collaborations with South Korean gaming companies.

Worldcoin plans to launch its own Layer-2 network, World Chain, in partnership with blockchain firms like Hyperlane and Moralis.

Regulatory Concerns

Worldcoin faces regulatory scrutiny in multiple regions, including Columbia, Spain, and South Korea, primarily over privacy issues linked to iris data collection. Damien Kieran, CPO of Tools for Humanity, addressed these concerns, emphasizing the company’s commitment to enhancing privacy technology and regulatory compliance. Updates earlier this year have allowed users more control over their iris data.