About .ai domain
.ai is a country code top-level domain (ccTLD) originally delegated for Anguilla. It is a sponsored ccTLD with the Government of Anguilla as the sponsor, and its technical registry operations are managed by Identity Digital. The extension was launched on 16 February 1995 and is notable for its widespread commercial availability and its treatment as a generic domain by major platforms like Google Search.
Who can register .ai domain
Registration for .ai domains is open to everyone worldwide without restrictions. There are no requirements based on residency, citizenship, or organizational status. Both second-level registrations (e.g., example.ai) and third-level registrations under labels like .com.ai or .org.ai are available to any individual or entity.
How to register .ai domain
- Search for your desired .ai domain name at any ICANN-accredited registrar to check its availability, noting that names must be between 1 and 63 characters and can contain letters, numbers, and hyphens.
- Compare pricing and terms among registrars, as the wholesale fee set by the registry leads to retail prices typically starting above $100 per year, and the minimum registration term is two years.
- Complete the checkout process, providing accurate registrant contact information; consider adding WHOIS privacy if offered by your chosen registrar.
- Finalize the registration by verifying your contact details and configuring your domain's DNS settings, such as nameservers, to point to your hosting provider.
Typical uses of .ai domain
The .ai extension is exceptionally popular with companies, startups, and projects related to artificial intelligence, as "AI" is a direct abbreviation for the industry. This makes the TLD a powerful branding tool for tech firms, researchers, and developers who want to immediately signal their field of focus. While it remains the official ccTLD for Anguilla, its primary contemporary use is global and generic, chosen by entities for its relevance and memorability over more traditional extensions.
Tips for registering .ai domain
- The minimum registration and renewal term for a .ai domain is two years, with a maximum term of ten years.
- The registry enforces a content policy; domains can be suspended for activities like phishing, fraud, copyright infringement, or violating Anguillan law.
- Transfers between registrars are supported using the Extensible Provisioning Protocol (EPP) and require a two-year renewal upon completion.
- Disputes over .ai domain names are subject to the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP).
Frequently asked questions about .ai domain
How much does it cost to register and renew a .ai domain?
As of today, .ai domains start from $74.95/yr on NameBeta, with prices ranging up to $241.33/yr across 31 registrars. See the registrar comparison table on this page for live prices.Which registrars support .ai domains?
NameBeta tracks 31 registrars that support .ai domain registration, with the cheapest option at $74.95/yr. Full list on this page.Who operates .ai domain?
The registry for .ai domains is Identity Digital, administered by Government of Anguilla.
Who can register a .ai domain?
Registration is completely open with no eligibility restrictions. Anyone, anywhere in the world—individuals, businesses, or organizations—can register a .ai domain. No proof of local presence, trademark, or specific industry affiliation is required to complete a registration.
Can I transfer a .ai domain between registrars?
.ai domains can be transferred between ICANN-accredited registrars using the standard EPP transfer process. To initiate a transfer, you will need to obtain an authorization code (EPP code) from your current registrar and submit it to the gaining registrar. Upon a successful transfer, the domain's registration is extended by two years.
What content is prohibited on a .ai website?
The registry prohibits content that violates Anguillan law. This includes fraudulent activities like phishing, copyright infringement, hate speech, unlicensed financial services or gambling, and certain types of pornography. Domains found in violation can be suspended without a content correction period.
How are disputes over .ai domain names handled?
The .ai registry uses the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP). Trademark holders who believe a domain was registered in bad faith can file a complaint with an ICANN-approved dispute resolution provider. Successful complaints typically result in the transfer or cancellation of the domain name.
Are there premium .ai domains?
Yes, premium .ai domain names exist and are often sold via registrar marketplaces or private sales, with prices significantly higher than standard registration fees. The aftermarket value for short or keyword-rich .ai names, particularly those related to artificial intelligence, can reach substantial sums due to high demand.
What happens if my .ai domain expires?
Standard expiration and renewal grace periods apply, though specific timelines are set by your registrar. It is crucial to renew on time to avoid the domain entering a redemption grace period, after which it may be deleted and returned to the pool of available names for general registration.
