ICANN Will Publish Domain Applications on October 7
The organization plans to reveal 1,616 domain name applications following the close of the 2026 application window.
Updated on Oct. 6, 2026 in Remote Work
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ICANN has scheduled the release of 1,616 paid domain name application details for October 7, 2026. This process, known as Reveal Day, identifies all applicants, requested strings, and relevant contention sets.
Why it matters
Publishing these applications enables applicants to evaluate their competitive landscape and decide whether to proceed or withdraw. Additionally, third parties can review the list to identify potential brand or intellectual property infringements.
ICANN confirmed that 1,616 paid applications will move forward in the 2026 round. Applicants choosing to withdraw their submissions before November 27, 2026, are eligible for a 65% refund of their fees.
The players
ICANN
The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers is the non-profit organization responsible for coordinating the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to the namespaces of the internet.
World Intellectual Property Organization
This is a specialized agency of the United Nations that provides a forum for policy, services, information, and cooperation in intellectual property matters.
International Chamber of Commerce
This organization acts as a representative body for businesses worldwide and provides various dispute resolution services.
The details
Applicants in contention are prohibited from negotiating private settlements or using private auctions to resolve disputes. Instead, parties with standing must navigate the formal community input and objection process, which runs from November 17, 2026, to March 16, 2027.
Timeline
October 7, 2026: ICANN publishes application data on Reveal Day.
October 8 to October 21, 2026: Applicants may request a switch to replacement strings.
November 17, 2026: ICANN publishes the final list of strings and contention sets.
November 27, 2026: The final deadline for applicants to withdraw for a 65% refund.
November 17, 2026 to March 16, 2027: The community input and objection period.
Market Landscape
This publication represents a critical phase in the ICANN 2026 New gTLD Program rules as stakeholders compete for digital real estate. By formalizing contention resolution and banning private auctions, the process shifts the industry toward structured public oversight.
Businesses monitoring the domain landscape should prepare to review the published list to determine if any requested strings conflict with their existing brands. Those who have already submitted applications must be ready to make strategic decisions regarding potential contention and withdrawal options.
The takeaway
The publication of these applications marks the transition from private filing to a public, contested environment. Organizations should utilize the upcoming objection period to protect their intellectual property rights against conflicting domain registrations.
Further reading
For more on industry infrastructure developments, see Remote Work.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The National Law Review - A Free To Use Nationwide Database of Legal Publications.
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