What Is ICANN Proposing?
Currently, there are only 21 gTLDs, such as “.com,” and “.net.” In an effort to expand the current selection of gTLDs, ICANN’s proposal would allow parties to apply for an unlimited number of gTLDs that the parties would control, such as: • Generic words (such as “.shoes,” “.cars,” or “.computers”) • Geographically based words (such as “.boston,” “.virginia,” or “.mexico”) • Brands (such as “.nike,” “.hersheys,” or “.pepsi”) Some of the most pertinent provisions of ICANN’s proposal are as follows: • Applicants will not be given priority based on the date of their application; rather, ICANN will review applications simultaneously and award the gTLD based on a multitude of factors. • The gTLD application process places the burden on trademark owners to monitor gTLD applications by third parties. Trademark owners will be required to object to any applications that may infringe on the owners’ trademark rights. • ICANN will review disputed gTLDs under a legal analysis similar to that used t
