World App Introduces Encrypted Chat and In-Wallet Crypto Payments in Major Update

Summary:
World App has released a significant update that includes encrypted chat services and integrated cryptocurrency payment options. This update allows users to manage their crypto assets easily alongside verified identities in a single platform.

Key Takeaways

The World App now features encrypted chat and in-wallet crypto payments.
Users can send, deposit, and withdraw cryptocurrencies similar to Venmo.
Supported cryptocurrencies include USDC, EURC, Bitcoin, and Ethereum, plus over 100 other tokens.
Unique verification processes ensure privacy and security for users.
The app aims to expand cryptocurrency usage and partnerships in its ecosystem.

World App screen showing encrypted chat and crypto wallet features

Major Upgrade of World App

World, a project focused on biometric identity verification and led by Sam Altman, has announced a significant upgrade to its application. This new version now includes encrypted chat services and integrated cryptocurrency payment capabilities, making it easier for users to manage their digital assets.

According to the announcement, this upgrade allows users to send, deposit, and withdraw cryptocurrency within the World Wallet and virtual accounts, much like the popular payment platform Venmo. The application now supports a variety of cryptocurrencies including USDC, EURC, wrapped Bitcoin, and Ethereum, as well as more than 100 additional tokens.

World App was initially launched in 2023 with the aim of equipping users with tools to verify human identity, especially important in today’s landscape of increasing AI-driven manipulation.

The upgrade was presented on Thursday at World’s headquarters in San Francisco, where Sam Altman and World co-founder and CEO Alex Blania showcased the new features. The development team referred to this product as a “super app,” highlighting its extensive functionality.

Altman emphasized the challenges of identifying unique individuals while safeguarding their privacy. In this update, the chat feature uses blue message bubbles for verified users and gray bubbles for those who are unverified to promote conversation privacy. Profile pictures are matched against Orb images stored on users’ devices to enhance security.

In May, World introduced an iris-scanning project for U.S. users. This involves scanning the user's face and iris for about 30 seconds to create a unique IrisCode that verifies their identity.

Previously, the World app served as a simple digital wallet, and the new version includes virtual bank accounts. Users can now directly receive salary payments into the World App and make deposits from bank accounts, allowing them to convert these funds into cryptocurrency.

Furthermore, the platform supports trading and swapping across more than 100 assets, including the World Chain's native tokens and real-world asset tokens such as tokenized gold, according to the company's statement.

This updated application marks a strategic move by World to broaden its partnerships and develop a more cohesive ecosystem designed to facilitate the growing use of cryptocurrency.