World Launches Phase 3 with 18 Million Verified Users, Shifts to Paid Credentials Model

World, Sam Altman-backed biometric verification project, launched Phase 3 of its development this week, announcing a strategic shift from token incentives to utility-based growth. The project, which marked its third anniversary, is now focusing on real-world applications across three sectors: enterprises, individuals, and AI agents, with use cases including human verification for sensitive digital interactions like Zoom calls and social platform verification.

World ID 4.0 introduces a monetization model where applications will be charged for creating World ID credentials—digital documents added to users' World IDs—while maintaining free access for users. The move opens a market of over 18 million verified users to companies and institutions, with fees paid in WLD token, enhancing network sustainability.