Worldcoin Rebrands as World, Aims to Reach 1 Billion Users

Worldcoin, the Sam Altman-backed digital identity initiative, has undergone a major rebranding as World, with ambitious plans to expand its user base to 1 billion people. During a keynote address on Oct. 17, co-founders Altman and Alex Blania unveiled key updates aimed at driving global adoption of their decentralized identity platform.

The rebranding signifies World Network’s shift towards a more decentralized network, moving away from its original identity verification model. Currently boasting 15 million users, including 7 million verified through its Orb technology, the platform is now setting its sights on reaching a billion verified human users.

Blania, also the CEO of Tools for Humanity, emphasized the project’s focus on scalability and decentralization, stating, “Today, we are taking the next big step in our mission — scaling the World Network to reach 1 billion users.”

Central to World’s growth strategy is the new version of the Orb device, which scans a user’s iris for identity verification. The project plans to triple production capacity and expand into new countries, with upcoming flagship locations in Buenos Aires and Mexico City. The updated Orbs will be available in public spaces like cafes and can be delivered on demand, making verification more accessible. The rollout is expected by spring 2025.

In addition to enhancing its biometric capabilities, World has launched World Chain, a Layer 2 blockchain on the Ethereum network. The blockchain aims to support millions of users and has already seen 15 million registrations globally on its first day, making it one of the largest human verification blockchains.

The World App is also being updated to Version 3.0, allowing users to manage their World ID credentials and access services like World Pay and World Chat. The app will introduce games and a messaging system to engage users and onboard more participants.

Altman, who also leads OpenAI, highlighted World’s goal to be “the anonymous human layer for the internet,” distinguishing people from AI actors. He stressed the importance of human identity verification as AI technology advances, stating, “As AI becomes more integrated into our lives, having a trusted human verification layer is critical.”