(Reclaim The Net) A biometric identity system built on iris scans is expanding into mainstream online services while its backers outline new ways to tie verified identity to revenue generation.

The initiative, led by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, introduced its standalone World ID app in public beta on April 17. The app separates identity management from the existing World App crypto wallet and is described as a tool to "verify with platforms and services, manage your authenticators, store credentials and control how your World ID is used."

The rollout comes as the organization reports more than 18 million people across 160 countries have already been verified using its Orb devices, which scan a person's iris to create a unique identifier.