The countdown to ICANN’s next round of generic top-level domains (gTLDs) has started, with April 2026 as the anticipated launch. But before the applications commence, ICANN first need to finalize the Applicant Guidebook (AGB). This guidebook will outline everything from application requirements to evaluation criteria.
So, what exactly is missing to move this forward? Here’s a closer look at what remains to be done for gTLD launch.
Finalizing the AGB
The Applicant Guidebook will deliver the keys to the next round of gTLDs. Once completed, the guidebook will serve as an essential roadmap for the entire application process. The AGB’s completion is vital for applicants and ICANN alike, providing the structure and transparency needed for a smooth rollout. While the organization already made some progress, a few critical obstacles remain in the way of ensuring that the next round of gTLDs stays fair, accessible, and secure.
1. Assessing your gTLDs: Eligibility and evaluation
ICANN is working on updating eligibility requirements and refining evaluation criteria to meet the needs of a modern, inclusive internet. Crucially, the organization must establish clear guidelines around who can apply and how ICANN will assess their applications. The guidelines will then outline expectations for applicants upfront. These updates will also help applicants better understand if they meet ICANN’s standards and give evaluators a consistent framework to follow in the gTLD process.
2. The application process timeline
Another key piece is a well-defined timeline for the application process, which includes deadlines, milestones, and evaluation periods. While ICANN already announced the approximate timeline, the organization has not yet released the exact dates and times. Finalizing these details will be crucial for a timely gTLD application process.
3. Policies to protect your gTLDs
One of ICANN’s top priorities is ensuring that rights protections are in place for existing domain holders and new applicants alike. The AGB will include enhanced policies to strengthen brand protection and streamline the application process for trademark holders. It addresses issues like trademark rights, dispute resolution, and processes for community-based or geographic names.
ICANN included these changes to give trademark owners an extended window to protect their brand integrity, particularly during the gTLD application phase. The changes broaden the policies across a larger portion of the domain ecosystem, minimizing the risk of brand dilution.
4. The Applicant Support Program (ASP)
ICANN designed ASP to help applicants from underserved regions gain access to resources they may need to succeed in the gTLD application process. As ICANN recently announced the date for ASP applications submission, it still finalizes the resources, funding, and guidance materials.
5. Supporting technical infrastructure
To further support the application process, ICANN is finalizing technical the infrastructure that will handle submissions, evaluation, and tracking. This gTLD application system must be secure, reliable, and user-friendly to give applicants a seamless experience.
The next round: An end to auctions?
Now that we’ve recapped on the AGB, and the landmarks leading up to it, it’s time to reflect on the last round of gTLD registrations and reflect on what’s to come. The last round in 2012 saw registrants bid for domains in private and public auctions. ICANN recently identified issues in the private auction system, particularly as the price paid by the winning bidder could be split between the losing applicants. Since some applicants bid for domains without having a credible intent to use them, instead aiming to sell them on or muddy the waters around the registration process, ICANN opted to change the mechanism in the next round.
The organization will only permit public auctions going forward, so losing applicants won’t get a share of the proceeds. They’ve also banned insider deals and backroom trading, so registrants must be upfront, transparent, and dedicated. That being said, if you want to secure a new gTLD in the next round, you’ll need clear evidence of your intent to use the extension, and a concrete plan for what you want to apply for, and the budget at hand.
What’s next for new gTLDs?
These five updates pave the way April 2026, when ICANN will release the completed guidebook With these elements in progress, we’re ever closer to finalizing the AGB and launching the next round, ensuring that potential applicants will have the guidance they need to prepare for their gTLD submissions confidently.
Are you looking forward to this exciting new chapter in the internet’s evolution?
If you’re looking to secure your own digital space with a new gTLD we can help! For more information on how we can support you right here.
