World launches tool to verify humans behind AI shopping agents
World launches verification tool for AI shopping agents amidst growing agentic commerce
S.F.: World, co-founded by Sam Altman, is dedicated to creating “proof of human” tech—tools to verify real people online. The connection isn’t lost that Altman’s other company, OpenAI, has been blamed for creating AI content of dubious quality (though one could argue he saw this problem coming when he founded World).
S.F.: Tools for Humanity, the startup behind World, released AgentKit beta this week. The tool helps websites verify real humans are behind AI shopping agents. More consumers use AI agents to surf web and buy things. This trend promises convenience but raises concerns about fraud and spam.
How AgentKit works
S.F.: AgentKit relies on World ID, which is key to TFH’s verification system. The most secure ID comes from scanning a user’s eyes with World’s Orb device. The Orb turns an iris into a unique digital code—a verified World ID. Users can then use the World app to access services.
S.F.: AgentKit lets users connect their World ID to a new payment system called x402 protocol. Coinbase and Cloudflare developed x402 as a blockchain system for computers to transact directly online. Users register their AI agents with World ID, which tells websites that a real human approves purchases.
Industry response
S.F.: Major shopping sites have embraced AI shopping agents. Last year, Amazon and MasterCard added automated buying features. Google recently launched its own protocol to support this trend. As the field grows, companies want safeguards to ensure reliable transactions.
TFH Chief Product Officer Tiago Sada compared AgentKit to giving AI agents “power of attorney” for shopping.” Websites can decide whether to trust transactions based on World ID verification. The tool is now available in beta to developers, who can provide feedback to improve it over time.