World Network, formerly known as Worldcoin, has launched a pilot program for its World ID Passport Credential, an initiative aimed at broadening access to its digital identity verification system and associated cryptocurrency ecosystem. This feature was introduced during the "A New World" event in San Francisco and is currently being tested in Chile, Colombia, Malaysia, and South Korea. It allows users to link NFC-enabled passports to their World ID, bypassing the need for biometric Orb scans traditionally used for identity verification.
The World ID Passport Credential enables individuals to securely store their personal data on their devices without sharing it with third parties such as Tools for Humanity (TFH) or the World Foundation. By leveraging zero-knowledge proof technology, the system ensures privacy while allowing users to verify specific identity attributes like age or nationality. This approach expands the utility of World IDs beyond simple proof of "humanness" and uniqueness.
The passport World ID Credential is now available on Android, with access to additional WLD tokens. pic.twitter.com/XEz8ufDrxk
— World (@worldcoin) January 31, 2025
The pilot program offers several benefits:
- Accessibility: It opens participation in the World Network to an estimated 1.2 billion passport holders globally, including those in remote areas without access to Orb verification hubs.
- Privacy: All personal data remains on users' devices, ensuring anonymity during identity verification.
- Incentives: Users with a Verified Passport Credential can claim additional WLD tokens, even if they have not undergone Orb verification. The total amount of claimable tokens decreases over time to encourage early adoption.
Initially available on iOS devices, the pilot has recently expanded to Android platforms as of January 31, 2025. The program is expected to roll out in additional countries soon.
The World ID Passport Credential underscores World Network's commitment to decentralization and privacy while incentivizing participation through its cryptocurrency ecosystem. As the pilot progresses, it has the potential to reshape global digital identity standards by combining security, accessibility, and user-centric data control.