New Internet Domain Names Plus Non-English Web Addresses
June 27, 2008 · Reading Time: 0min 58sec · Print This Article
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NEW YORK - The Internet’s key oversight agency, The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), has allowed the introduction of new Internet domain names to join “.com,”. This paves the way for “.pepsi”, “.islam” and yes, even “.hafihz”. In addition, ICANN has also permitted addresses entirely in non-English languages.
Before you start purchasing one, wait just yet… the doors won’t be opened at least till next year. Also, it would cost alittle though… 6 digits is the estimated figure.
My analysis is that large companies would want to jump on the bandwagon immediately, as this represents a huge branding opportunity in terms of extending your brand associations. Studies would have to be done on how perceptions differ, for example, when looking at “www.hafihz.com/tv” versus “www.tv.hafihz”. The “.com” extension also enjoys a certain brand leverage from its massive use (first mover advantage), and is an icon in itself amongst our generation. However if the new domain extensions kick in and rich critical masses in the future, the “.com” might just turn into a classic domain extension, and prices might start to increase for the humble “.com” then.
As for the non-English web addresses, this represents an opportunity for brands to adapt their sites to suit local cultures through language. Companies that could stand to benefit include the software language converting ones and perhaps those developing special keyboards which can switch languages at the press of certain keys.
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Hafihz ( BBA, NUS) is a marketing strategist who can help you with the art and science of communicating meaning. He does 
I like this idea!! It give more opportunity for businesses..
I can open a new registrar site man!! heh…
Im already selling this, doing it for a year plus… talk to me if you want to register your name in arabic…
But from experience, only works if you’re having a business in the mideast…
Anyway a heads up.. we’re having new TLDs (top level domain names) for arabic market.