Upcoming TLDs / .owl
Can you register a .owl domain?
Source: ICANN 2026 round applications, checked October 27, 2026. Not in the IANA root zone as of October 26, 2026.
What .owl would mean
In their own words, from the public part of each application (question 118):
OWL corresponds to the OWL brand name and trademark; no other meaning is intended in this application.
"owl" refers to a nocturnal bird of prey (order Strigiformes) known for large forward-facing eyes, silent flight, and wide global distribution.
Who applied for .owl
Intercap Registry Inc.
KY, stage: Pre-Evaluation Processing
The applied-for gTLD string, .owl, corresponds to the OWL brand name and trademark. The string will serve as a dedicated, brand-specific namespace in which registrations are limited to the registry operator and its affiliates and trademark licensees, rather than as a generic or descriptive term for a category of goods, services, or registrants.
KV GmbH
DE, stage: Pre-Evaluation Processing
The mission of the TLD is to create a distinctive digital space for the global owl community, bringing together owl enthusiasts, fans, researchers, conservation advocates, educators, and organizations connected to owls. It is intended to serve as a memorable and meaningful namespace for people and entities that share an interest in owls, whether for fun, scientific, educational, cultural, or community-oriented purposes.
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 .owl 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 .owl and its registry announces launch dates.