In an era increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence, distinguishing between human and machine-generated content has become a pressing challenge. To address this, Tools for Humanity, co-founded by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, introduced the 'Orb' on May 27, 2025. This biometric device scans users' irises to create a unique "World ID," confirming their human identity. In return, participants receive a small amount of cryptocurrency called Worldcoin.

The Orb aims to establish a reliable method for verifying human identity online, thereby combating issues like digital fraud and misinformation. Despite its ambitious goal of global human verification, the project has seen modest adoption, with only 12 million users registered since mid-2023. Tools for Humanity has raised $244 million in venture capital, projecting a $1.2 billion crypto market value for Worldcoin.

However, the initiative has sparked significant privacy and regulatory concerns, particularly in the European Union. In December 2024, the Spanish Data Protection Agency (AEPD) ordered Worldcoin to delete all iris scan data collected in Spain, citing violations of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). The AEPD's decision followed complaints about insufficient user information, data collection from minors, and the inability for users to withdraw consent. Similarly, the Bavarian State Office for Data Protection Supervision (BayLDA) in Germany mandated the deletion of non-compliant data and required Worldcoin to implement GDPR-compliant data deletion procedures.

In response to these challenges, Tools for Humanity introduced the Orb Mini, a portable handheld device equipped with advanced cameras for iris scanning, aiming to enhance user verification while addressing privacy concerns. The company plans to deploy 7,500 Orbs across the United States by the end of the year and is constructing a manufacturing facility in Richardson, Texas, to support this expansion.

Leadership changes have also been made to navigate the complex regulatory landscape. In November 2024, Nick Pickles, former head of global affairs at Elon Musk's social media platform X (formerly Twitter), joined Tools for Humanity as chief policy officer. Pickles emphasized the need for robust human verification methods in the face of advancing AI technologies.

The introduction of the Orb and the World ID system carries significant societal implications. By providing a reliable method to verify human identity online, the technology aims to combat issues such as digital fraud, misinformation, and the proliferation of AI-generated content. However, the collection and storage of biometric data raise concerns about privacy, data security, and potential misuse. Critics argue that centralizing such sensitive information could lead to surveillance and erosion of individual freedoms. Furthermore, the project's model of offering cryptocurrency in exchange for biometric data has been criticized for potentially exploiting vulnerable populations.

As the Orb continues to expand its reach, balancing technological innovation with privacy and ethical considerations remains a critical challenge. Ongoing dialogue among technologists, policymakers, and the public will be essential to navigate these complex issues and ensure that advancements in AI and biometric verification serve humanity's best interests.