Identity Digital Review: 216 New gTLD Applications Filed in 2026 Round

Identity Digital submitted 216 new gTLD applications on Reveal Day, October 7, 2026, making it the largest single applicant by volume in the round. The company filed through 28 affiliated U.S. LLCs and targeted strings across 13 thematic categories. Applications remain in early evaluation stages with no operational TLDs yet.

Overview of Identity Digital New gTLD Applications

Identity Digital, previously known as Donuts and Afilias, manages over 270 existing TLDs and more than 28 million domains. The 2026 filings build on its 2012 round experience when it applied for hundreds of strings under the Donuts banner. The applications seek to expand options for users and businesses seeking distinct online identities, particularly in areas influenced by AI and shifting naming patterns.

The company analyzed language trends and AI-driven online behavior across five selection passes. Focus stayed on strings with broad organic interest and clear long-term positioning rather than short-term trends. Total round figures show roughly 1,615 applications from 481 applicants for about 986 unique strings, with many strings drawing multiple applicants including Identity Digital entries such as .agent, which received 13 initial filings.

Categories, Examples, and Selection Process

Thirteen thematic groups organize the 216 strings. These include AI, Web3 & Crypto, Finance, Commerce & Retail, Media & Creators, Tech & Infrastructure, Trade & Industry, Professional Services, Travel & Hospitality, Identity & Trust, Gambling, Generic, and Health & Wellness. AI and crypto categories represent additions compared with the 2012 round.

Concrete examples range from .agent with backup strings .agnt and .agt to .crypto, .bitcoin, .api, .base, .labs, .node, .chain, .identity, .portal, and .coin. Generic strings such as .good, .view, and .hub also appear alongside niche options. The portfolio approach aims to give registrars more choices and support varied user needs.

Official statements from CEO Akram Atallah highlight the goal of providing more people and businesses ways to express identity online. Selection emphasized disciplined choices suited to AI-accelerated requirements and drew on the company’s scale in existing operations.

ICANN 2026 Round Timeline and Next Steps

The Replacement Period ran from October 8 to 21, 2026, allowing backup string submissions. String Confirmation Day on November 17, 2026, finalizes strings and contention sets, after which Community Input and Objections run until March 16, 2027. String Evaluation lasts approximately 180 days from November 17.

Further milestones include the Prioritization Draw in the first half of 2027, followed by contention resolution through auctions or community priority evaluation where needed. Contracting and delegation come after, with earliest possible launches estimated for Q2 2028 or later. Many strings face contention, requiring resolution before any delegation.