News

ICANN has published the finalized String Similarity Evaluation (SSE) Data together with the final String Similarity Evaluation Guidelines for the New gTLD Program: 2026 Round. These resources are intended to support the evaluation of applied-for top-level domain strings while helping minimize the possibility of user confusion caused by visually similar domain extensions. The documents were finalized following the completion of the public comment process.

NicNames has expanded its domain catalog with four distinctive extensions: .DOT, .LATINO, .NL, and .SI. Whether you are building an AI company, reaching customers in the Netherlands, creating a home for a Latino brand or community, or protecting a trademark in the new .DOT namespace, there is a new naming opportunity waiting for you.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has announced a series of interactive webinars dedicated to the Draft Report prepared by the Review of Reviews Cross Community Group (CCG). The sessions will take place on 14 July 2026 and are designed to present the report while giving Nominating Groups and other interested stakeholders an opportunity to ask questions and discuss its proposals.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has launched a call for Expressions of Interest for the positions of Chair and Chair-Elect of the 2027 Nominating Committee (NomCom). The organization is inviting experienced leaders from the global Internet community to apply for the two key governance roles.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers has published the official schedule for the ICANN86 Prep Week, offering the community an early look at the sessions leading up to the ICANN86 Policy Forum. This preparatory phase is designed to help participants align on key topics, review agendas, and ensure they are ready for productive discussions during the main event.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers has announced a series of question-and-answer sessions designed specifically for applicants preparing to participate in the upcoming New gTLD Program. These sessions are intended to provide direct guidance and clarify key aspects of the application process, helping participants better understand requirements and expectations.

The ICANN has initiated a public consultation process, inviting feedback on a newly released draft of the Evaluation Guide for Community Priority Evaluation (CPE). This document is part of the preparation for the upcoming round of new generic top-level domains (gTLDs), aiming to clarify how community-based applications will be assessed.

ICANN has officially opened the application window for the NextGen@ICANN87 program, inviting young professionals and students to participate in the upcoming ICANN87 Public Meeting. This initiative is designed to engage individuals who are interested in Internet governance and the multistakeholder model, offering them a chance to become part of the global ICANN community.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers has issued a Request for Proposal dated 13 February 2026 to select a qualified service provider responsible for conducting two key evaluation processes within the New Generic Top-Level Domains Program 2026 Round.

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has published its January 2026 Contractual Compliance gTLD Registry Audit Report, outlining the results of its most recent review of generic top-level domain (gTLD) registry operators. This report represents the first full audit cycle reflecting the 2024 amendments to the Base Registry Agreement (RA), which introduced expanded and more explicit requirements related to Domain Name System (DNS) Abuse mitigation.