Worldcoin, a startup focused on verifying human identity in an era of advanced AI, has announced its expansion into the US market. The company’s flagship product, an orb that scans eyeballs and stores data on the blockchain, is now available at six cities across the country.
The San Francisco storefront, which is strictly appointment-only, features minimal decor but showcases the orb technology. However, attendees have reported glitches with scanning their eyeballs, citing a need for more secure solutions.
World’s expansion has faced regulatory scrutiny due to concerns over data privacy and security. The company was temporarily banned in several countries, including Kenya, Portugal, and Spain, and fined nearly $1 million by South Korea for alleged violations in collecting and transferring personal data.
Despite these concerns, some individuals are embracing the technology, such as a recruiter who saw an opportunity to streamline his work processes. “You get mixed emotions,” said Kim Scott, who works for a recruiting agency that helps staff World. “I was ambivalent about partaking in the orb experience, but after trying it, I felt compelled to find a more secure solution.”
The company’s global launch has also sparked debate among experts and consumers alike. A man visiting from Poland expressed caution, stating, “My only hesitation is that they are super huge…I’m pretty afraid that they can actually do some stuff that we will not know about.” World’s chief business officer, Trevor Traina, acknowledged these concerns during a press conference, but emphasized the need for secure verification methods in an era of AI.
As Worldcoin continues to expand its presence in the US market, it remains to be seen how its technology will evolve and address ongoing regulatory issues.
Source: https://www.wired.com/story/sam-altman-orb-store-san-francisco