OpenAI and Meta Lead Rush for AI-Focused Top-Level Domains in New ICANN Round

The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has released its latest batch of top-level domain (TLD) applications, marking the first time in years that the internet governing body has accepted proposals for new web address extensions. According to a report by The Verge (https://www.theverge.com/tech/1007132/icann-domains-2026-ai-agi), ICANN announced that 481 distinct applicants have submitted a total of 1,615 applications, with artificial intelligence terminology dominating the filings.

Competition is concentrated around key AI concepts. Ten different organizations, including both Meta and OpenAI, submitted applications for the .agent domain. Seven applicants, including OpenAI, filed for .agi, while six applicants, also including OpenAI, applied for .asi. Four companies submitted bids for .intelligence, and Meta is one of two applicants seeking the .superintelligence domain suffix.

Beyond generic AI terms, the application pool includes hundreds of standard generic terms alongside 345 brand-specific domain applications. Meta filed for several dedicated extensions tied to its products, including .facebook, .instagram, .messenger, .meta, .frommeta, and .threads. OpenAI applied for brand-specific TLDs including .chatgpt, .codex, .openai, and .gpt. Social platform Bluesky applied for .bsky, with the apparent aim of integrating the extension into user handles. Non-tech enterprises also entered the branded pool, with filings for .applebees, .bankofamerica, .zillow, and .zoom.

The influx of applications comes after years of mixed commercial results for alternative TLDs. While suffixes such as .ai and .app have gained traction in recent tech cycles, broader consumer adoption for specialized suffixes has remained limited compared to .com, and only a small group of companies, such as Google, have previously secured proprietary brand domains.

The current list represents an initial stage in ICANN's evaluation procedure. None of the newly requested top-level domains are expected to receive official approval or become active before next year.