The World project, developed with the aim of protecting human identity in the age of artificial intelligence and providing secure access to the digital economy, officially started operating in the United States as of May 1, 2025.
This project, supported by Sam Altman, one of the founders of OPENAI, focuses on creating a digital identity with iris scanning technology.
US Launch: Orbs Active in 6 Major Cities
Along with the US launch, World has opened physical centers called “World Space” in Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville and San Francisco.
In these centers, users can create their digital identity called World ID by scanning their eyeballs.
In addition, this service has also been made available for access in technology stores such as Razer. Oct.
The project aims to deploy 7,500 Orb devices across the country by the end of 2025. It was announced that a new manufacturing facility will be established in Richardson, Texas for the production of these devices.
Orb Mini: Authentication Is Now Mobile
World also introduced its portable device called “Orb Mini” in order to make eye scanning technology more accessible.
This device, which will be the size of a smartphone, will allow users to verify their identity on the go.
The Orb Mini is scheduled to be launched in 2026.
Financial Integration: Visa Partnership and World Card
World is aiming to expand not only in digital identity, but also in the field of digital finance.
In this context, it is preparing to launch a World branded debit card in cooperation with Visa.
With this card, users will be able to spend directly by converting their WLD tokens into fiat currency.
In addition, thanks to the agreement with Match Group, identity verification will be possible on platforms such as Tinder.
In this way, it is aimed to increase the security in online dating applications.
Privacy Concerns and Regulatory Reactions
The rapid growth of the project has also brought privacy and data protection discussions in some countries.
In countries such as Spain, France, Portugal and Hong Kong, official investigations against World have been launched or activities have been suspended.
Although World explains that all data is anonymized and stored securely, the collection of biometric data in a centralized system remains at the center of criticism.
The Future Vision of the World
World is focused on shaping the future of digital authentication and building human-centered digital security in the age of artificial intelligence.
Integration into financial systems with inclusive identity systems can make it possible for individuals to participate in the digital world in a more secure and free way.
However, for this growth to be sustainable, the World needs to successfully pass not only technological, but also ethical and regulatory-based exams.
The World Opened to the USA, A New Page in Digital Identity Begins
The US launch of World is not only a technological product introduction; it is considered as the beginning of a new digital identity order.
Orb devices may be a turning point in terms of standardization of digital identities and integration with blockchain-supported systems.
Authentication, pay systems, online platforms and the global digital economy..
At the center of it all is no longer just the username and password, but your pupil.
