#Japan #AI Technology #Tokyo #World ID #Tools for Humanity

Tools for Humanity Hosts Japan's First Presentation on World Project

On May 15, 2025, global tech company Tools for Humanity (TFH) successfully conducted its inaugural media business presentation and networking event in Japan, focusing on its groundbreaking World Project. The event included a presentation by Yutaka Makino, the Japan Representative for Tools for Humanity, along with a panel discussion featuring AI specialist Masahiro Chaen and an interactive experience with the cutting-edge device, Orb, designed for World ID verification.

Presentation by Yutaka Makino

During the presentation, Yutaka Makino elaborated on the foundation and philosophy behind the World Project, emphasizing the importance of distinguishing between human beings and AI in the digital landscape. He stated, “AI is evolving at a pace faster than any previous industrial revolution. Without a system to prove human identity, we risk facing rampant impersonation, fraud, and misinformation, putting societal trust in jeopardy. Tools for Humanity will promote the adoption of ‘World ID’ as a solution to this issue.”

Makino further clarified that World ID is designed to differentiate between humans and AI without compromising privacy or anonymity. He reassured that the system is constructed based on secure design principles, ensuring the safety of user data.

Panel Discussion: Trust and Humanity in the Post-Deepfake Era

Following Makino's address, a compelling panel discussion commenced featuring Masahiro Chaen. During the dialogue, they addressed the relationship between AI and humans, focusing on future-oriented insights. A significant concern raised in the discussion involved the risk of impersonation via generative AI. Chaen cited real-world examples, alerting that conventional ID systems are no longer adequate to combat the growing threats associated with AI-generated identities.

In addition, the dialogue delved into the ongoing struggle between innovation technology and personal data protection. Makino mentioned, “The key is not to share personal information at all. World has a policy of collecting only minimal data and does not retain personal data on the administrative side, prioritizing privacy and anonymity.” This highlighted the balance needed between technological advancement and ethical standards.

The closing topic focused on coexistence between AI and humans. Chaen emphasized the importance of leveraging AI as a complementary entity rather than viewing it as an adversary. They concluded that fostering a trusted system for AI use is vital for building a better society based on mutual understanding.

Joining the Generative AI Utilization Promotion Association (GUGA)

The event also featured comments from Kohmura, the director of GUGA, who remarked on the rapid expansion of generative AI applications. He stated, “In light of the risks associated, distinguishing between humans and AI is one of the essential themes for establishing a new standard in the AI era. We are delighted to welcome Tools for Humanity into our community and look forward to collaborating towards creating a safe and secure environment for AI usage.”

Tools for Humanity plans to work closely with GUGA to promote generative AI awareness activities and partnerships with member companies.

Future Developments in Japan

To further the implementation and growth of the World Project in Japan, Tools for Humanity will pursue the following initiatives:

1. Strengthening Strategic Partnerships
- In October 2024, TFH announced a partnership with Hakuhodo to promote the domestic recognition and implementation of World ID.
- Collaborations will also include partnerships with P-UP World, managing nationwide flagship stores as Orb authentication points.
- Starting from May 16, 2025, collaborations with Baroque Japan Limited will begin, focusing on young women through the setup of Orb at various clothing stores.

2. Creation of World ID Use Cases
- In November 2024, collaboration with the Web3 game project, TOKYO BEAST, will integrate World ID into the game, enhancing user verification.
- As part of a global partnership with Match Group, World ID will be integrated with Tinder Japan to enhance trust in the matching app ecosystem.

3. Expanding Awareness Activities
- Hosting events and workshops nationwide to promote the importance of World ID, reaching out to general consumers, enterprises, and municipalities to foster an understanding of ‘proof of personhood.’

About World

World is a protocol designed to verify human identity in the AI era. Central to it is the World ID, enabling users to prove their humanity online without disclosing personal information. This project was co-founded by Sam Altman, Alex Blania, and Max Novenstern.

Overview of Tools for Humanity

Established in 2019, Tools for Humanity aims to accelerate the transition to a more equitable and human-centered digital economy. TFH leads the early development of the World Network and operates the World App. The company is headquartered in San Francisco and Berlin.