Upcoming TLDs / .ether
Can you register a .ether domain?
Source: ICANN 2026 round applications, checked October 27, 2026. Not in the IANA root zone as of October 26, 2026.
What .ether would mean
In their own words, from the public part of each application (question 118):
medium in space
Merriam-Webster defines "ether" as a medium that in the wave theory of light permeates all space and transmits transverse waves, and as airwaves. In that sense it is commonly used for the airwaves through which radio signals are broadcast.
Who applied for .ether
Link Freedom Group / LFG
Link Freedom Group Ltd, MT, stage: Pre-Evaluation Processing
Link Freedom Group (LFG) aspires to become a best-in-class, vertically integrated domain name registration authority, see linkfreedomgroup.link. This TLD is part of a carefully curated portfolio of strings that LFG intends to pursue in ICANN’s 2026 New gTLD Program. In assembling this portfolio, LFG focused on securing meaningful, memorable, and commercially compelling strings that resonate strongly with end users and offer long-term growth potential.
Worldwide Internet Domains Inc
US, stage: Pre-Evaluation Processing
The word “ether” is a common English dictionary word with multiple longstanding meanings across science, history, literature, and ordinary language. It describes the invisible medium formerly believed to fill space and carry light, energy, and signals. For more than a century, it refers to the figurative space through which messages, broadcasts, and ideas are sent “into the ether” to reach audiences beyond their point of origin. .ETHER draws on this established figurative meaning as a name for communication, publishing, broadcasting, and connection across distance. The mission of .ETHER is to …
What happens next
- April 30, 2026: Application window opened (done)
- August 12, 2026: Application window closed (done)
- October 7, 2026: Reveal Day: ICANN published every applied-for string (done)
- October 21, 2026: Replacement period ended (applicants could switch to a backup string) (done)
- November 17, 2026: String Confirmation Day: the final list of applied-for strings
- March 16, 2027: Community input and objections period ends
Dates from ICANN’s Reveal Day announcement, checked October 27, 2026. We re-check the applications every day and this page changes when they do.
When will .ether be available?
ICANN has not set a date. The final list of applied-for strings comes on String Confirmation Day (November 17, 2026), community input and objections run until March 16, 2027, and ICANN processes applications after a prioritization draw in 2027. Registration opens only after ICANN delegates .ether and its registry announces launch dates.