OpenAI, an artificial intelligence company co-founded and led by Sam Altman, is reportedly in discussions for a partnership with Tools For Humanity’s Worldcoin, a cryptocurrency-based company that focuses on universal basic income and identity verification. Both companies, which Altman is involved with, are said to be exploring a potential collaboration, with OpenAI providing AI solutions and services to Worldcoin, and the potential for further collaboration in the future.
However, such a partnership would likely face increased scrutiny from regulators due to Altman’s involvement in both companies. It is uncertain what exactly Tools For Humanity CEO Alex Blania meant by his comments, but it should be noted that Worldcoin is currently one of the most active universal basic income and identity verification services globally, with an average of two million users per day.
Both OpenAI and Worldcoin have previously faced controversy and regulatory scrutiny. OpenAI recently avoided an investigation into its partnership with Microsoft by European Union authorities. On the other hand, Worldcoin has encountered bans in Portugal, Kenya, and Spain in the first three months of 2024.
In 2024, Worldcoin has been focused on expanding its operations. The company recently launched its own blockchain, which prioritizes verified Worldcoin users over bots. In terms of cryptocurrency, Worldcoin plans to increase its WLD token supply by 36 million over the next six months, valued at approximately $196 million. The popularity of the token, in terms of distribution, has been rising, with reports of a shortage despite having hundreds of the company’s scanning hardware, known as orbs, in the field.
These orbs are used by Worldcoin to scan users’ irises, which are unique like fingerprints, to register and confirm their digital identity. In areas where the service is available, users can sign up and have their eyes scanned to receive 10 WLD tokens, currently trading at $4.81, plus an additional two tokens every month.