Liam Horne, Advisor for the World Foundation, recently discussed the often-misunderstood nature of iris-scanning technology during a panel at Consensus 2025.

Key Points:

• Horne explained that the controversy regarding the World project’s orb technology is frequently based on misunderstandings.
• Contrary to popular belief, he asserted, “The data literally never leaves the orb.”

The World Network employs orb devices that conduct iris scans for identity verification as part of its ‘proof-of-personhood’ system. When attendees gaze into an orb, their iris is mapped, and the biometric data is transformed into a secure World ID, which confirms their unique human identity.

Regulatory scrutiny concerning data privacy and consent has surfaced from various regions, including Europe, Africa, and Asia. Horne reassured that the system is built with privacy as a primary focus.

Previously, orbs were exclusively available in select locations across South America, Asia, and Africa. Recently, the initiative expanded into the U.S., introducing orb scanning in cities like Atlanta, Austin, Los Angeles, Miami, Nashville, and San Francisco.

Read more: Sam Altman’s World Crypto Project Launches in US With Eye-Scanning Orbs in 6 Cities