Businesses push for mobile top-level domain

This is wild! InfoSync World reports that a consortium of companies including Microsoft, Nokia, Vodafone, 3, GSM Association, HP, Orange, Samsung Sun Microsystems are applying for a TLD (Top Level Domain Name - such as .com - specifically for mobile customers.

"A mobile TLD on the Internet creates the opportunity to streamline the deployment of new Internet sites optimized for mobile usage.

The group said in a joint statement Wednesday that it will apply for the TLD from ICANN and file its submission by the March 16 deadline for the current application round, according to Mobile Pipeline, my new bookmark.

I think I found the consortium's mobile TLD application form. See also Nokia's application page.

The proposals:

.mobile
No explanation needed.

.mobi
to emphasize the fact that the TLD will be optimized for mobile devices and services.

.now
to emphasize the instant access to mobile devices and services.

.own
to emphasize the personal nature of the Mobile Internet.

.mas
to emphasize the availability of more mobile applications and services.

.max
to emphasize the mobile access and maximal benefits for the mobile Internet users.

.mid
to emphasize mobile identity and mobile identification.

.mis
to emphasize the importance of the TLD as an enabler of Mobile Information Society.

My vote goes to .mobile. If anyone is curious, .mo is already taken, it's the country code for Macau.

emily | 6:15 PM | Domain Names |
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