ICANN has recalibrated its timeline for the next new gTLD application round, pushing pre-delegation testing to December 2025. The adjustment addresses technical delays while keeping the overall program trajectory pointed toward launches in 2026 and 2027.
Prospective applicants have been waiting years for this round to open. The revised schedule provides more concrete planning milestones, even if it means waiting a bit longer before new extensions start hitting the DNS root.
What pre-delegation testing involves
Before ICANN delegates a new TLD into the root zone, applicants must prove their registry systems work properly. Pre-delegation testing validates technical capabilities, security protocols, and operational readiness.
The December 2025 start date gives applicants clear targets for completing their technical buildouts. Registry service providers building backend infrastructure can now align their development timelines accordingly.
Why the delay happened
ICANN’s new gTLD program involves coordinating multiple complex systems and stakeholders. The original timeline proved optimistic given the scope of preparation required. Rather than rushing implementation and risking technical failures, ICANN opted for a measured approach.
Applicants probably prefer a realistic schedule over an aggressive one that invites last-minute chaos.
Impact on the 2026-27 rollout
The revised testing timeline still supports launches beginning in 2026 and continuing through 2027. ICANN isn’t fundamentally restructuring the program—just adjusting the preparation phase to match operational realities.
Early applicants with straightforward TLD proposals could potentially launch in 2026 if they clear evaluation and testing efficiently. More complex applications or those facing contention will likely slide into 2027.
The staggered rollout approach prevents overwhelming the system with hundreds of simultaneous launches. It also gives the market time to absorb new extensions rather than flooding zones all at once.
What applicants should do now
Prospective applicants have additional months to refine their business plans and technical specifications. Organizations planning to apply should finalize registry service provider relationships, secure funding, and develop go-to-market strategies.
The application window will eventually open, and prepared applicants will move faster through the process.
The bigger picture
ICANN’s timeline adjustment reflects the complexity of safely expanding the DNS namespace. The internet’s addressing system can’t afford shortcuts that compromise stability or security.
For the domain industry, the December 2025 milestone provides a tangible checkpoint. After years of “coming soon” messaging, concrete dates help stakeholders plan investments and resource allocation.
The next new gTLD round will reshape parts of the domain landscape. Whether it fundamentally changes .com’s dominance remains doubtful, but it will create new opportunities for registries, registrars, and investors willing to navigate fresh territory.
