ICANN to open tons of new top level Domain Names

In a landmark move, ICANN has approved the introduction of a whole range of new names introduced to the Internet’s addressing system.

There are currently around 21 top level domains people can buy, starting witht he popular .com, .net and .org domains. With this new policy, it will be possible to create a slew of new domain extensions — .shop, .hotels, .nyc (for New York City), or even .manila. Any group or entity can submit a proposal for a new top level name to be approved by ICANN.

They’ve posted an F.A.Q. on their site to answer the more obvious questions:

1. Are you selling these new names?
ICANN is not “selling” new top level domain names. There will be a limited application period where any established entity from anywhere in the world can submit an application that will go through an evaluation process. It is anticipated that there will be additional rounds relatively soon after the close of the first application round.

2. What’s to stop others registering my brand name?
Trademarks will not be automatically reserved. But there will be an objection-based mechanism for trademark owners where their arguments for protection will be considered.

3. How did this proposal get developed?
ICANN has a multi-stakeholder policy development process that served as the foundation for the process design. It involved consultation with domain name industry, trade mark attorneys, the business sector, users, governments and technicians.

4. How will offensive names be prevented?
Offensive names will be subject to an objection-based process based on public morality and order. This process will be conducted by an international arbitration body utilizing criteria drawing on provisions in a number of international treaties. ICANN will not be the decision maker on these objections.

5. When will all this happen?
ICANN is working towards accepting the first applications in the second quarter of 2009.