Unstoppable Domains and Blockchain.com have announced a partnership to launch .blockchain domains. This initiative aims to propel the growth of Web3. The partnership focuses on registering the .blockchain domain with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). ICANN oversees IP addresses and domain names globally.
ICANN will implement new generic top-level domains (gTLDs) by 2026. The application process starts next year. The firms have a year to prepare for the new domain’s application. The agreement between Blockchain.com and Unstoppable Domains aims to prepare for this upcoming ICANN application.
Once approved, the .blockchain domain will join top-level domains like .com and .net. This will provide a dedicated space for blockchain-related businesses. The .blockchain gTLD will serve as both a Web2 domain and a Web3 domain. It will integrate Web3 and traditional Web2 browsing capabilities. This integration will enhance accessibility and allow users to utilise .blockchain domains across both ecosystems.
Founded in 2018, Unstoppable Domains leverages blockchain technology to give users control over their digital identities. The company plans to offer specialised domain names for individuals, brands, and companies. This expands the use of blockchain-based domains.
The collaboration aims to bridge the gap between Web2 and Web3. This is similar to Ethereum Name Service’s integration of browser-compatible .box web domains. The .box domain is an ICANN-approved top-level domain and the first on-chain gTLD included in the ENS manager app. Domains hosted on .box are searchable and indexable on major browsers. This includes Google Chrome and Safari. They are also compatible with popular email services.
Web3 domains are new web extensions launched as smart contracts on public blockchains like Ethereum, Polygon, and Solana. Extensions like .sol or .crypto can replace lengthy wallet addresses for cryptocurrency transactions. They can also be used for website hosting and single sign-on methods for various Web3 applications.
The appeal of Web3 domain names lies in their simplicity. Users can send funds to an easy-to-remember wallet address like jack.eth instead of a 42-character crypto wallet address. This makes it simpler for consumers to interact with a named address.
.blockchain and other Web3 domains take the form of unique non-fungible tokens (NFTs). They are hosted on a public, immutable blockchain. They cannot be altered or deleted. They provide users full ownership of their data and can serve as a user’s digital identity.
Recently, FIDA, the token governing Solana-based infrastructure developer Bonfida, saw a surge following the launch of its Solana Name Service (SNS) in China. Users are purchasing popular domain names through these platforms. They anticipate that corporations will soon register their respective brands.
