World Launches Orb Iris-Scanning Biometric Authentication in the UK
Sam Altman’s startup, World, is gearing up to introduce its innovative biometric identity verification service in the United Kingdom starting June 12, 2025. The launch will kick off in London and gradually expand to key cities including Manchester, Birmingham, Cardiff, Belfast, and Glasgow over the coming months.
What is the Orb Technology?
World’s signature device, the Orb, is a compact spherical scanner that captures a person’s iris and facial features to generate a unique World ID. This system aims to serve as a robust alternative to conventional bot-detection methods such as CAPTCHA and facial recognition, designed to distinguish humans from advancing AI-generated deepfakes and bots.
Users who undergo the iris scan receive a verified ID that confirms their humanity online, which can be used to log in seamlessly across multiple platforms. Currently, the World ID integrates with popular apps like Reddit, Discord, and Minecraft, providing a frictionless, secure login experience.
Expanding Presence and User Base
Having debuted in the US with stores in Austin, Atlanta, Los Angeles, Nashville, Miami, and San Francisco, World boasts an impressive community of over 13 million verified users. The UK rollout marks a significant step in the company’s ambitions to build a global biometric identity network during the rapidly advancing AI era.
How Does World Protect Privacy?
While biometric data collection always raises privacy concerns, World emphasizes its commitment to user protection. Sensitive iris data is encrypted and securely handled; importantly, the original biometric information is deleted after processing. This data is not stored on centralized cloud servers but managed through a decentralized network of smartphones, adding an extra layer of security against breaches.
Enterprise and Government Interest
The demand for such sophisticated verification tools is growing rapidly, especially among enterprises and government bodies increasingly challenged by AI-driven fraud. Automated scams targeting bank customers and other financial crimes have highlighted the urgent need for stronger identity defenses.
Adrian Ludwig, Chief Architect of Tools for Humanity—a key contributor to World—explained that the threat posed by AI is no longer hypothetical but a daily reality. Ongoing discussions with the UK’s Information Commissioner’s Office reflect governments’ keen interest in using this technology to reinforce identity infrastructures and combat fraud.
“Governments are curious about applying this as a tool to improve identity verification and reduce fraudulent activities. Questions about privacy, security, and risks have been addressed, paving the way for adoption,” Ludwig noted.
Looking Ahead
As AI-generated deepfake technology becomes more sophisticated and accessible, the need for reliable, user-friendly biometric verification methods like World’s Orb becomes increasingly vital. With its UK launch, World is positioned to play a pivotal role in shaping digital identity security for millions, offering a glimpse into a future where proving humanity online might just be as simple as a quick iris scan.
