San Francisco-based Tools for Humanity has launched a significant upgrade to the World App, turning it into a versatile super app.
Announced on December 11, 2025, this move integrates encrypted communication, cryptocurrency transactions, and identity tools to address growing concerns over AI bots and online authenticity.
Core Features of the Update
The update introduces several tools aimed at everyday use, focusing on security and ease.
Encrypted Messaging via World Chat
World Chat offers end-to-end encryption similar to Signal, with messages from verified users shown in blue bubbles for quick trust checks.
It includes group chats, in-chat mini apps like polls and games, and direct crypto transfers. No metadata on contacts or timing is collected, ensuring privacy.
Crypto Payments and Wallet Enhancements
Users can send and receive crypto like Venmo, with support for over 100 tokens including USDC, EURC, and local stablecoins. Features include virtual bank accounts for deposits, in-app swaps, and real-world spending via QR codes at over a million merchants in Argentina.
A physical World Card with tap-to-pay is set for early 2026 launch.
Earn Opportunities and Mini Apps
DeFi yields through Morpho provide up to 18% on WLD and 15% on USDC, protected by World ID against abuse.
Over 400 mini apps cover gaming, finance, and AI tools, some accessible within chats.
Project Background & Goals
Founded in 2019 by Sam Altman and Alex Blania, the project started as Worldcoin and rebranded to World in 2023.
It uses iris-scanning Orbs for anonymous World IDs to prove human identity without personal data like names or emails.
The mission targets AI challenges such as deepfakes and bots, promoting a privacy-focused network for global interactions.
This shift to social and financial features aims to increase adoption beyond verification.
Current Adoption & Strategy
As of late 2025, the app has about 40 million downloads, with verifications every 3.6 seconds and sign-ups every 1.7 seconds. Around 20 million users hold verified World IDs, with ambitions for one billion.
Ranked as the top self-custodial wallet by monthly users, the app draws inspiration from WeChat while emphasizing borderless finance, especially in emerging markets. Payments work without verification to lower entry barriers.
Broader Effects on Digital Landscape
This evolution positions World as a competitor to apps like X or Coinbase, blending web3 finance with secure chats. It fosters trustworthy online spaces, from dating to commerce, amid rising AI threats.
Past concerns over biometric data in developing regions persist, but the focus on privacy may ease adoption hurdles.
Editor's Comments
This update marks a strategic pivot for World, leveraging Sam Altman's AI expertise to bridge human verification with practical tools.
Building on OpenAI's influence, it could accelerate crypto mainstreaming, much like how WeChat dominated in Asia.
However, success hinges on navigating privacy regulations and scaling Orbs globally.
Predictions suggest rapid growth in Latin America, potentially reaching 100 million users by 2027 if integration with AI services expands.
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