For years, people thought the web was the future, but that was before smartphones and native applications surged in popularity. There are definitely benefits to both sides of the coin. Websites can be viewed on a plethora of different devices using the same code, while native applications tend to perform faster as they’re built for specific platforms. Google is invested in both technologies but they have just launched a new top-level domain (TLD) specifically for applications and application developers.
You’re likely already familiar with other TLDs such as .com, .net, .org, and .edu. The availability of TLDs was restricted for years but has recently been expanding. We’re currently at 1,543 top-level domains as of April of this year. This list of internet top-level domains covers everything from countries to jobs and virtually everywhere in between. Google has their own TLD with the recently launched The Keyword blog at blog.google and now they have announced that .app is their latest TLD that can now be registered.
The target audience for the .app TLD is solely for applications and the developers behind those apps. With popular TLDs becoming flooded by squatters, it can be difficult to get the correct domain name for a new (or old) application. Google has other plans too though, as they’re also working to make security a prominent feature with this new top-level domain. A major change here is that HTTPS is required in order to connect to all .app websites as that will help to protect against ad malware and tracking injection by ISPs.
However, to safeguard against spying on open WiFi networks Google has said that .app will be the first TLD with enforced security made available for general registration. From now until May 7th the .app TLD is available for those who want to pay extra and secure the domain name they want. Then on the 8th of this month registrations will be available to the general public through the registrar of your choice.
Google has also created the get.app website for you to see who’s already on .app and to help choose a registrar partner to begin registering your domain.
Source: The Keyword