World, supported by Sam Altman, launched an upgraded application featuring encrypted messaging and enhanced cryptocurrency payment capabilities. The app allows users to confirm their identity as unique humans online through biometric authentication with World ID. Key features include:
- World Chat offers Signal-level encryption and color-coded verification badges for user identity confirmation.
- Users can receive paychecks and bank deposits directly in the app and convert funds to cryptocurrency.
- The company has verified under 20 million people and aims to reach one billion iris scans.
- The app includes social features aiming to create a messenger platform similar to WhatsApp or Telegram, with a focus on security.
- Users verify their identity by having their iris patterns scanned by an Orb device, which converts the data into encrypted digital codes for World IDs.
- Orb Minis, handheld devices for home self-scans, were introduced to ease the verification process.