**The Worldcoin Orb: Scanning Irises for Digital Identity Verification**
**What is the Worldcoin Orb?**
The Worldcoin Orb is a futuristic device developed by Worldcoin, a company owned by Tools for Humanity. Designed with the assistance of a top Apple designer, the orb is approximately the size of a large grapefruit. Its sole purpose is to scan and record an individual’s iris, converting the biometric image into an impenetrable string of numbers known as an “IrisCode.” This code, when combined with an algorithm, verifies the uniqueness of a person and confirms their identity through a mobile app.
**How to Sign Up for the Worldcoin Orb**
Worldcoin is currently offering the orb service in 35 cities worldwide, including prominent locations such as Miami and New York. Additionally, the company is conducting a tour to introduce the device to various pop-up sites. A list of locations can be found on Worldcoin’s website.
**Preserving “Humanness” in a World Dominated by AI**
The parent company, Tools for Humanity, aims to provide blockchain-based digital identity tools accessible to everyone. In a world increasingly controlled by bots and artificial intelligence, distinguishing between humans and machines becomes challenging. Worldcoin proposes using the unique iris image as an infallible method to prove one’s humanity.
**The Visionary Behind the Worldcoin Orb**
Sam Altman, the founder and CEO of OpenAI, spearheads the Worldcoin Orb project. Formerly involved in the prestigious Silicon Valley incubator Y Combinator, Altman is widely recognized for his contributions to AI development. Worldcoin has successfully secured over $200 million in funding from venture capital firms such as Khosla Ventures and Bain Capital.
**The Crypto Angle: Worldcoin Tokens**
As an incentive for participating in the iris scanning process, Worldcoin rewards individuals with its own cryptocurrency tokens, known as Worldcoin (WLD). These tokens recently commenced trading at a value slightly above $2 each. Initially, Worldcoin employed an “airdrop” distribution method, directly sending tokens to eligible recipients’ wallets instead of listing them on an exchange. However, regulatory concerns prevented U.S. users from receiving the airdrop.
**A Future of Iris Scans and Universal Basic Income**
Looking ahead, Worldcoin envisions an ecosystem in which various services utilize iris scans for identity verification. Additionally, the company believes its tokens could play a role in a futuristic universal basic income system.
**Is It Safe to Sign Up?**
While Worldcoin emphasizes the privacy of the iris scanning technology, utilizing advanced privacy measures like zero-knowledge proofs, critics express concerns regarding the potential risks associated with entrusting biometric data to a private company. Some skeptics doubt Worldcoin’s ability to handle this responsibility responsibly.
In conclusion, the Worldcoin Orb offers a unique approach to digital identity verification, relying on iris scanning technology. While it presents innovative possibilities, individuals should carefully consider the potential privacy and security implications before deciding to participate.
GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings