The next round of generic top-level domain (gTLD) launches is tentatively scheduled for April 2026, as indicated by Tripti Sinha, Chair of the ICANN Board.

The Implementation Review Team (IRT) has been working since May 2023 on a comprehensive plan, including an Applicant Guidebook (AGB) with eight modules governing the process. This includes six modules from the 2012 launch round, plus “Applicant Support Program” and “RSP Pre-Evaluation Process” modules.

The ICANN Board aims to finalize the AGB by May 2025, potentially leading to an application round in Q2 2026. Key challenges involve internationalized domain names (IDNs), closed generics, and implementing recommendations from the “New gTLD Subsequent Procedures Policy Development Process Final Report.”

Advertisers, marketers, brand experts, and investors should prepare early for this exciting launch – however, until official confirmation, the launch date remains tentative.

For more information, please visit ICANN’s website.

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