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In a bid to enhance its unique Orb device, Worldcoin, the crypto project by Tools for Humanity, is gearing up for the release of an upgraded version within the next six months, according to CEO Alex Blania.
The new iteration of the Worldcoin Orb promises alternative colors and form factors, seeking a “much more friendly” appearance akin to Apple products. Blania revealed these details at a StrictlyVC event, emphasizing ongoing efforts to refine the device’s design, TechCrunch reported.
Worldcoin’s Orb has become a focal point, drawing attention and controversy for its iris-scanning capabilities, assigning users a “World ID” for access to Worldcoin’s application, and creating a digital passport. The distinctive five-pound device has sparked fascination and debate over its appearance, described as a chromatic bowling ball-sized device.
Expansion Challenges
Despite initial skepticism, the recent StrictlyVC event saw attendees willingly engage in iris scanning in exchange for a World ID. Field testing for the new Orb has also been conducted. Notably, Worldcoin faced criticism during beta testing for its focus on adoption in developing economies, prompting a global tour to cities like Tokyo, Miami, New York City, and San Francisco to expand its presence.
Worldcoin’s momentum is evident in its recent user growth, with over 190,000 new accounts created in the past week, totaling 3.13 million users overall, underscoring its significance in the crypto space.
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This development comes after Worldcoin suspends orb eye-scanner services in France, India, and Brazil after a global expansion. According to Fortune, The Worldcoin Foundation clarified that activities in France and Brazil were limited-time previews, while in India, proof-of-personhood services were temporarily paused to develop a secure process. The startup also raised $250 million from prominent venture capitalists but is now under regulatory scrutiny in France, Germany, and Argentina.
Great to engage with so many people at last night’s @StrictlyVC event. pic.twitter.com/d4Hx9I35TM
— Tools For Humanity (@tfh_technology) January 25, 2024
Privacy Concerns Addressed
Sam Altman, the head of OpenAI, co-founded Worldcoin in 2020 to address digital identity concerns in the era of artificial intelligence. Altman has faced personal challenges, including a brief removal as OpenAI CEO in November and controversy over a $75 million fund from the University of Michigan.
Critics point out issues like World IDs being sold and potential Orb security concerns. Bloomberg reported that Worldcoin’s value lies in speculative trading, which is particularly popular in economically disadvantaged regions. Critics express concern about its popularity, suggesting users may not fully comprehend its potential privacy implications. Some argue that Worldcoin, in its current form, lacks clear utility, branding it as a solution in search of a problem.
Tools for Humanity CEO Alex Blania addressed concerns about the perceived intrusiveness of biometric data collection, emphasizing its “privacy-preserving” technology. He noted in a Bloomberg interview that the Orb scans retinas, generating world IDs, and despite their current limited use, the company envisions their importance in an AI-driven future. Worldcoin incentivizes users with tokens, envisioning them as the foundation for a new economic system and a potential source of universal basic income.
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