About .android domain
.android is a brand gTLD operated by Charleston Road Registry Inc., a Google subsidiary. It was delegated to the root zone in November 2014. As a brand TLD, its primary purpose is to serve as a dedicated domain space for the applicant's specified community. The registry has implemented rights protection measures consistent with ICANN's requirements for new gTLDs.
Who can register .android domain
Registration for .android domains is strictly restricted. Only verified members of the Open Handset Alliance are eligible to register a domain. The registry plans to require registrars to confirm an applicant's membership in the alliance through an established verification process. Applicants must pass this eligibility check before they can apply for a second-level domain.
How to register .android domain
.android is a brand TLD allocated through a non-commercial, restricted process. The registry operator, Charleston Road Registry Inc., controls the delegation of domains. Eligible entities must be members of the Open Handset Alliance and submit requests through the established verification process. The registry decides on applications, and successful applicants are granted the right to use a specific second-level domain.
Typical uses of .android domain
The .android extension is used exclusively by members of the Open Handset Alliance, a consortium of companies committed to the open-source Android mobile platform. Domains under this TLD typically signal official affiliation with the Android ecosystem and are used to host content, services, or initiatives directly related to the platform. It provides a dedicated, brand-aligned namespace for these members, distinguishing their official resources from the broader internet.
Tips for registering .android domain
- Registration is contingent upon passing the registry's eligibility verification process for Open Handset Alliance membership.
- The registry reserves the right to impose registrant verification enforcement policies on registrars.
- Charleston Road Registry has committed to implementing strong intellectual property rights protection mechanisms for this namespace.
Frequently asked questions about .android domain
Who operates .android domain?
The registry for .android domains is Google Registry, administered by Charleston Road Registry Inc..
Who can register a .android domain?
Eligibility is limited to verified members of the Open Handset Alliance. The registry operator, Charleston Road Registry Inc., has stated that registrars will be required to confirm an applicant's alliance membership through a defined process. This is a strict policy, and domains are not available for open, public registration.
Can I transfer a .android domain between registrars?
Transfer policies for .android domains would be governed by the registry's specific terms and ICANN's transfer policy for gTLDs. Given the restricted eligibility, any transfer would likely also require the receiving party to be a verified Open Handset Alliance member. It is advisable to consult the specific registry policies and your registrar for detailed transfer procedures.
What rights protection measures are in place for .android?
The registry operator, Charleston Road Registry Inc., has committed to implementing strong and integrated intellectual property rights protection mechanisms. This suite of measures builds upon ICANN's required policies, such as the Uniform Domain-Name Dispute-Resolution Policy (UDRP) and the Uniform Rapid Suspension (URS) system. These protections are intended to support innovation and competition while safeguarding trademark holders.
Can a member of the public register a .android domain?
No, .android is not an open TLD. The registry's stated mission is to limit registration to only members of the Open Handset Alliance. There is no general public registration process; all applicants must undergo and pass the alliance membership verification conducted by the registrar as required by the registry.
Who operates the .android registry?
The .android TLD is operated by Charleston Road Registry Inc., which is a subsidiary of Google. This entity applied for the TLD through ICANN's New gTLD Program, signed the registry agreement with ICANN, and is responsible for all technical and policy operations of the .android namespace.