Worldcoin Cryptocurrency by Sam Altman Hits US Market With Eye Scanning Launch

Worldcoin, co-founded by Sam Altman, launches in the US. Users can earn cryptocurrency by allowing eye scans. Physical “World Spaces” for iris scanning are located in several major cities. Worldcoin also plans a debit card with Visa. The platform aims to address online identity verification amidst the rise of AI.

Worldcoin, a cryptocurrency created by the Sam Altman co-founded startup Tools for Humanity, has officially launched in the United States. Starting this week, Americans can now access Worldcoin, also known as WLD, primarily through exchanges like Coinbase. In exchange for allowing their eyes to be scanned by metallic orbs, participants will earn 16 WLD. The announcement was made by Altman and CEO Alex Blania during a press event labeled “At Last” in San Francisco.

Physical locations, called “World Spaces,” are set to facilitate iris scans for the cryptocurrency. Key cities include Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, and San Francisco, with additional services available at Razer gaming stores. The new design of the orb, which is more compact and portable, reflects ongoing updates from Tools for Humanity.

Launched in 2019, Tools for Humanity aims to establish World ID as a fundamental method for online human verification. This initiative indirectly addresses the societal challenges posed by advancements in AI, a field where Altman also plays a significant role with OpenAI. His long-term vision suggests that Worldcoin could potentially serve as a universal basic income for individuals displaced by AI technologies.

Users will mainly engage with Worldcoin through the World wallet app, enabling WLD and other cryptocurrency exchanges within a private chat environment that utilises World IDs. The app also features over 150 mini-apps, further enriching user experience, including a new tool linked to the prediction market Kalshi.

The launch comes amid shifts in US regulatory attitude toward cryptocurrencies. While former SEC Chair Gary Gensler adopted a strict stance on the sector, the Trump administration has eased scrutiny, allowing Tools for Humanity to roll out Worldcoin in the US. However, New York residents remain unable to access the token due to regulatory barriers.

Despite concerns surrounding its biometric data use, Worldcoin has become a significant player in the crypto landscape. The startup reports verifying 12 million individuals across more than 100 countries on its Ethereum-based platform, World Chain. However, the token’s market price has seen considerable volatility, lingering below its initial debut value as the launch event approached.