Big Tech Races to Claim AI-Focused Top-Level Domains

The latest batch of applications from 481 entities highlights a sharp divide between generic labels and proprietary branding. While entries like .geek, .anime, and .itiswhatitis aim for broad appeal, major tech players are aggressively securing their own digital ecosystems. OpenAI has filed for .agi, .asi, and .chatgpt, while Meta seeks to cement its identity through .meta, .facebook, and .instagram.

This expansion represents the first time in years that ICANN has opened the door for new suffixes. Beyond the AI-focused domains, the list includes 345 brand-specific applications such as .applebees and .zoom. For companies like Bluesky, which applied for .bsky, the goal is to integrate these domains directly into user identity systems, potentially shifting how navigation and account verification function across the web.