Effective Thursday January 12th, ICANN, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers, will allow applications for new generic Top Level Domains. In English, this means that you will no longer be limited to .NET, .COM, .EDU, .ORG, .US, .XXX, etc. domain names. Now you will be able to apply for branded Top Level Domains such as .Microsoft, .McDonalds, .Ford, etc., industry-related Top Level Domains such as .LAWYER or .BANK as well as Top Level Domains that use non-Latin lettering such as Chinese and Arabic characters.
However, note that only corporations, organizations and institutions can apply, the application period will last from 1/12/2012-4/12/2012, owners of these top level domains, because they will be operating the equivalent of a .COM registry, will have to meet the same obligations that they would as if they operated an Internet registry, including meeting all of the similar technical requirements, applicants must submit proof that they are a valid legal entity and in good standing, applications will be reviewed for confusion with other generic Top Level Domains and the on-line registration fee, which is exclusive of other fees, is $185,000.00. For more information see http://newgtlds.icann.org/about/benefits-risks
Existing trademark owners should note that ICANN will not notify you if someone applies for a new Top Level Domain name that is identical to your trademark. However, they intend to publish a list of all applications received after the application submission period closes.
There will likely be more news on this in the future. And the news is that the list of proposed new Top Level Domain Names will be announced tomorrow in London. See http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/story/2012/06/12/tech-new-internet-domain-names.html
