The second application round for new gTLD applications seems to be gearing up. ICANN has slowly been releasing new information about applying for a TLD in the 2nd round of applications. According to ICANN’s website, the next round of applications is expected to commence in April of 2026.
I couldn’t even take a guess at how many new TLD strings will be applied for, but I suspect a good portion of them will be brand-related TLDs. Some brands that weren’t created when the first round of applications started in 2012 as well as those that may have missed out will likely have an interest in applying for a brand matching TLD.
Com Laude, a corporate-focused domain registrar announced an upcoming webinar to discuss what is involved in operating a dotBrand TLD. The webinar will be hosted by Ashley Roberts, Head of New TLD Consultancy at Com Laude. Andee Hill, Director of gTLD Accounts at ICANN, will be a guest. The aim of the event is to provide information and answer questions about the next round of TLD applications, which will be applicable to brands.
There will be two sessions on November 7th – at 12pm CET and 12pm EST. Registration in advance is required to participate. I am not certain if everyone who registers will be permitted to participate, as this event is primarily geared towards brands rather than domain investors. If the next round of TLDs is of interest to you and you want to attend the webinar, you should reach out to Com Laude or sign up on the registration page. Details are within the LinkedIn post below:
In other news, ACME Wool Company is holding an informational meeting for sheep interested in learning about the textile industry.
When is your UDRP response webinar?