Unstoppable Domains and Blockchain.com have come together in a strategic partnership to introduce and promote a DNS-enabled web3 domain extension called “.blockchain”.

As per information shared with crypto.news, the two companies have collaborated to secure the .blockchain web3 domain registration with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the global authority responsible for IP addresses and domain names.

ICANN is gearing up to introduce new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) by the year 2026. The application process will kick off with the release of ICANN’s Applicant’s Guidebook in the upcoming year, giving the firms a year to prepare for the application of the new domain.

“The partnership between Blockchain.com and Unstoppable Domains is primarily focused on getting ready for this forthcoming ICANN application,” a spokesperson informed crypto.news.

Once approved by ICANN, the .blockchain domain will join the ranks of existing top-level domains (TLD) such as .com and .net, offering a designated space for blockchain-related enterprises.

“Upon receiving accreditation from ICANN, the .blockchain gTLD will function as both a web2 and web3 domain, merging web3 and traditional web2 browsing capabilities, enhancing accessibility, and enabling users to seamlessly utilize “.blockchain” domains across both ecosystems. This will include email services, website resolution, and more,” the spokesperson elaborated.

Established in 2018, Unstoppable Domains has been utilizing blockchain technology to empower users with control over their digital identities. The company aims to provide tailored domain names for individuals, brands, and businesses, expanding the utility of blockchain-based domains.

The collaboration between Unstoppable Domains and Blockchain.com seeks to bridge the gap between web2 and web3, reminiscent of Ethereum Name Service’s recent integration of browser-friendly “.box” web domains.

The .box domain has received approval from ICANN as a top-level domain and is the first on-chain gTLD included in the ENS manager app alongside .eth. Domains hosted on .box are searchable and indexable on major browsers like Google Chrome and Safari, making them compatible with popular email services as well.

Web3 domains, such as .sol or .crypto, are novel web extensions launched as smart contracts on public blockchains like Ethereum, Polygon, and Solana. These extensions can simplify cryptocurrency transactions by replacing lengthy wallet addresses and can also be used for website hosting and single sign-on methods for various web3 applications.

The allure of web3 domain names lies in their simplicity. Users can now send funds to an easily memorable wallet address like “jack.eth” instead of a complex 42-character crypto wallet address, making it easier for consumers to interact with a named address.

“.blockchain” and other web3 domains are in the form of unique, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), hosted on an immutable blockchain, ensuring data ownership and serving as a user’s digital identity.

In a recent development, FIDA, the token governing Solana-based infrastructure developer Bonfida, witnessed a significant surge following the launch of its Solana Name Service (SNS) in China. Users are currently acquiring popular domain names through these platforms, anticipating that major corporations will soon register their respective brands.

For further information, you may be interested in:
– Blockchain.com plans to expand workforce by 25% amid global expansion
– The rise of web3 domain names
– Ethereum Name Service collaborates with GoDaddy to link domain names with crypto wallets