Home / Technology / Big Tech Vies for AI TLD Control
Big Tech Vies for AI TLD Control
8 Oct
Summary
- Over 1,600 new top-level domain applications were submitted to ICANN.
- Major tech companies are competing for AI-related domain names.
- New TLDs are expected to go live by late 2027.
ICANN recently disclosed information regarding 1,615 new top-level domain (TLD) applications received. A significant portion, 333 applications, were brand-related, indicating a trend of major companies seeking enhanced online control. North American organizations submitted the majority, with 864 applications, alongside 506 from Europe, representing 85% of total submissions.
Major technology firms are actively vying for control over AI-related TLDs. OpenAI applied for 15 TLDs, including .chatgpt, while Google sought over 30 extensions such as .api and .agent. Meta also submitted applications for domains like .superintelligence and .wearables.
These competitive applications highlight the intense interest in AI-centric online identities. The process will continue with ICANN's Prioritization Draw in the first half of 2027. Consequently, the successful new TLDs are not expected to launch until the latter half of 2027.
