ICANN has published a list of the first batch of evaluated technical providers to run a new gTLD (RSP = Registry Service Provider)

Most new gTLD operators will probably rely on such a third-party RSPs to run the technical side of the registry incl. DNS, RDAP, DNSSEC etc. RSPs get evaluated one time and can then run as many TLDs as desired.

Amongst the RSPs are

  • Some established registries such as Denic (.de), Afnic (.fr) or Nominet (.uk)
  • Larger commercial providers who already run many TLDs (Google, Identity Digital, GoDaddy Registry)
  • Private companies

There are quite a few Chinese RSPs as well which might mean that some more IDN TLDs are coming.

Not many applicants have gone public with their intentions yet, but corporate TLDs are expected as well as web3 and geo TLDs. Only an employee of Salesforce has confirmed that they are applying for a new gTLD (.salesforce?).

 

ICANN will open the application window for new gTLDs on 30 April 2026.