In a significant shift for the blockchain-based identity verification sector, Worldcoin has officially rebranded to “World.” Founder Sam Altman unveiled this transformation during a keynote speech on October 17, marking a new chapter for the company and its innovative technology.
The rebranding comes alongside a host of exciting updates, including an upgraded version of the Orb biometric scanning device that the company uses to verify user identities. This new Orb, powered by Nvidia hardware, boasts enhanced efficiency and performance, being touted as five times more powerful than its predecessor while maintaining a smaller footprint and requiring fewer components. This upgrade is expected to streamline the identity verification process, making it faster and more user-friendly.
During the live-streamed event, World revealed that the new Orb will soon be available in self-service kiosks in select markets, expanding accessibility for users. This aligns with the company’s vision of simplifying identity verification through technology.
In addition to the hardware improvements, World announced the introduction of new identity verification options. Through a program called World ID Credentials, users will soon be able to verify their identity using NFC-enabled government-issued passports via the World app. This move enhances flexibility for users who may not have access to the Orb hardware, making identity verification more inclusive.
Another notable innovation presented was World ID Deep Face, a service designed to combat the growing concern of deepfake technology. The company claims its software can be integrated into various applications where video content is uploaded or streamed. By leveraging advanced algorithms, World ID Deep Face aims to distinguish between genuine videos featuring verified individuals and those that have been manipulated using AI. This development addresses a critical need in today’s digital landscape, where misinformation can spread rapidly.
As part of the announcement, it was revealed that 15 million users have already signed up for the World app, with seven million having completed the verification process. These figures highlight the growing adoption of the platform and its potential to revolutionise how individuals verify their identities online.
The transition from Worldcoin to World represents more than just a name change; it embodies a strategic shift towards a more comprehensive approach to identity verification in an increasingly digital world. With a focus on enhancing user experience and integrating seamlessly into everyday applications, World aims to establish itself as a leader in this vital sector.
As the company continues to roll out these updates, the focus remains on creating a secure and accessible identity verification system that meets the needs of a diverse user base. With its innovative technologies and a commitment to addressing contemporary challenges, World is poised to make a significant impact in the identity verification landscape.