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OpenAI Reportedly Developing Social Network Focused on Biometric Human Verification

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OpenAI Reportedly Developing 'Real-Humans-Only' Social Network

OpenAI is reportedly developing a social network aimed at addressing the prevalence of bot accounts on online platforms. Sources indicate the project, currently in its early stages with a small team, intends to create a "real-humans-only" environment.

The initiative emerges amid ongoing challenges with bot accounts on social media, particularly on platforms like X (formerly Twitter).

Verification Methods

The platform may incorporate biometric identity recognition to ensure each account is linked to a verified human user. The development team is reportedly considering methods such as Apple’s Face ID or the World Orb, which uses iris scans to generate unique, verifiable IDs.

The World Orb is operated by Tools for Humanity, a company co-founded and chaired by OpenAI CEO Sam Altman. This approach aims to differ from current social networks that typically rely on phone, email, or behavioral verification. Privacy advocates have voiced concerns regarding the unchangeable nature of iris scans and potential risks if identity data is misused.

Platform Features and Development

Details on how the social network would integrate with OpenAI’s existing products are not fully known. However, it is anticipated that users could create AI-generated content, such as videos or images, within the platform.

There is currently no public launch timeline, and the project is subject to significant changes before its potential release.

Context and Competition

The initiative emerges amid ongoing challenges with bot accounts on social media, particularly on platforms like X (formerly Twitter). OpenAI CEO Sam Altman has previously expressed frustration with the increasing presence of non-human activity on social media.

OpenAI has a history of developing widely adopted consumer applications, including ChatGPT and Sora. Should it launch, the social network would enter a competitive market dominated by incumbents like X, Instagram, TikTok, Meta’s Threads, and newer platforms such as Bluesky.