Unstoppable Domains and Blockchain.com have teamed up to introduce and promote a DNS-enabled web3 domain with the “.blockchain” extension.
As per a statement shared with crypto.news, the two companies have collaborated to secure the .blockchain web3 domain with ICANN, the global organization in charge of IP addresses and domain names.
ICANN plans to introduce new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) by 2026. The process kicks off with the launch of ICANN’s Applicant’s Guidebook next year, giving the firms a year to prepare for the application of the new domain.
“The partnership between Blockchain.com and Unstoppable Domains is geared towards readiness for the forthcoming ICANN application,” a spokesperson informed crypto.news.
If approved by ICANN, the .blockchain domain will join established top-level domains like .com and .net, creating a dedicated space for blockchain-related businesses.
“After receiving accreditation from ICANN, the .blockchain gTLD will function as both a web2 and web3 domain […] It will merge web3 and traditional web2 browsing functionalities, improve accessibility, and permit users to seamlessly use “.blockchain” domains across both ecosystems. This includes email and website resolution for web2 capabilities,” the spokesperson elaborated.
Established in 2018, Unstoppable Domains has been utilizing blockchain technology to empower users with control over their digital identities. Their goal is to provide specialized domain names for individuals, brands, and companies, broadening the utilization of blockchain-based domains.
The collaboration between Unstoppable Domains and Blockchain.com is designed to bridge the gap between web2 and web3, similar to Ethereum Name Service’s recent integration of browser-compatible “.box” web domains.
The .box domain is an ICANN-approved top-level domain and is the first on-chain gTLD featured 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.
Web3 domains, such as .sol or .crypto, are new 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 with easy-to-remember domain names.
“.blockchain” and other web3 domains are unique, non-fungible tokens (NFT) hosted on a public, immutable blockchain, ensuring data ownership and serving as a user’s digital identity.
Recently, FIDA, the token governing Solana-based infrastructure developer Bonfida, experienced a significant increase in value following the launch of its Solana Name Service (SNS) in China.
Users are currently acquiring popular domain names through these platforms, anticipating that businesses will soon register their brands.
For more information, you can read about the Ethereum Name Service’s partnership with GoDaddy to connect domain names with crypto wallets.