Christy Lynn
Quick answer: Worldcoin, now called World, is a project co-founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman that verifies people are human by scanning their irises with a device called the Orb, then gives them a digital “World ID” and, in many countries, free WLD tokens. WLD trades on major exchanges. The project launched in the US in May 2025 but faces privacy scrutiny from regulators in several countries.
What is World (formerly Worldcoin)?
World is a “proof of personhood” network built by Tools for Humanity, the company co-founded by Sam Altman and Alex Blania. Its goal is to give every person a way to prove online that theyโre a real, unique human instead of a bot or an AI agent, which matters more as AI-generated content spreads.
The project launched globally as Worldcoin in July 2023 and rebranded to World in October 2024. It has three main parts:
- World ID: a privacy-preserving digital identity that proves youโre a unique human without revealing who you are
- World App: the wallet app where you hold your World ID and WLD tokens
- World Chain: an Ethereum layer-2 blockchain that gives verified humans priority access
How does the Orb work?
To get a fully verified World ID, you visit an Orb, a camera device that scans your iris and face to confirm youโre a unique person. World says the images are processed on the device and deleted, and only an encrypted code is kept. In 2025 the company introduced the Orb Mini, a smaller, portable version.
What is WLD?
WLD is Worldโs token. Verified users in eligible countries receive periodic WLD grants. WLD is also used for governance and on World Chain. Like any small-cap token, its price is very volatile.
Is Worldcoin available in the US?
Yes. World launched in the US on May 1, 2025, starting with Orb locations in Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville and San Francisco, and has expanded since. Availability of WLD rewards still varies by country and state, so check the World App for your location.
Where can you buy WLD?
WLD trades on large international exchanges such as Binance (visit Binance, non-US) and on a growing number of US platforms. Check an exchangeโs current listings for your state before signing up. See our list of the best crypto exchanges.
Privacy and regulatory concerns
World has faced investigations or temporary suspensions in countries including Kenya, Spain, Portugal, Hong Kong and others over how biometric data is collected and stored. Critics also point out that a large share of WLD supply is held by insiders and investors, with ongoing token unlocks that can pressure the price. Read Worldโs privacy terms carefully before scanning your iris.
Is Worldcoin a good investment?
WLD is a speculative bet on whether proof-of-personhood becomes essential infrastructure in an AI-driven internet. The idea has big backers and real momentum, but regulatory risk, token unlocks and privacy concerns make it high-risk. Only invest what you can afford to lose. Our guide on how to research cryptocurrency can help you evaluate it.
Frequently asked questions
Is Worldcoin the same as World?
Yes. Worldcoin rebranded to World in October 2024. The token is still called WLD.
Do I get free WLD for scanning my iris?
In many countries, verified users receive WLD grants through the World App. Eligibility varies by location.
Who owns Worldcoin?
World is developed by Tools for Humanity, co-founded by Sam Altman and Alex Blania, with support from the World Foundation.
Is it safe to scan my iris with the Orb?
World says it deletes iris images and stores only encrypted codes, but several regulators have raised privacy concerns. Weigh the risks before you participate.
