Sam Altman-backed World Network has launched World Chat, a beta-stage messaging app integrating end-to-end encryption, crypto transactions, and a verification system to distinguish humans from bots.
World Network’s New Chat App Ties Messaging to Crypto Transactions
This article was published more than a year ago. Some information may no longer be current.
WRITTEN BY
SHARE
Encrypted Messaging App World Chat Aims to Verify Users, Streamline Payments
World Chat, a new Mini App on World Network, allows users to message and send cryptocurrency globally while identifying verified accounts through World ID, a protocol displaying blue chat bubbles and a gem icon for authenticated profiles. The project’s blog post notes that unverified accounts show gray bubbles. The app, available via World App, claims encryption for privacy and seamless wallet integration for transactions.
World Network reports over 24 million users and 11.4 million verified World ID profiles, with Mini Apps—web-based tools embedded in World App—garnering a reported 250 million opens in early 2025. The company states its blockchain, World Chain, maintains a high ratio of user operations to transactions, suggesting human-driven activity rather than bot automation.
The announcement on Thursday explained that developers can use World’s software kits to incorporate World ID verification and wallet features into third-party apps, potentially expanding use cases. World Chat itself may be embedded in other Mini Apps, enabling in-app messaging, the team’s blog post noted.
The World Build incubator, a partnership with firms like Alchemy and Bain Crypto Capital, aims to boost Mini App development. A February hackathon drew 150 participants, with 12 teams advancing to a Buenos Aires retreat focused on payments, AI, and wellness projects.
While World Network emphasizes user verification and ecosystem growth, its claims about bot-free transactions and overall growth figures rely on self-reported metrics. The success of World Build and broader adoption of Mini Apps remain to be seen. World Network’s native token, worldcoin (WLD), has experienced a notable decline of 17.1% this week and a 27% drop over the past month. Additionally, WLD has plummeted over 91% from its all-time high of $11.74, currently trading at $0.96 as of March 6.
