Google Registry set to launch .channel domain with Dutch auction pricing model
New .channel domain enters early access on February 4, with general availability starting February 11, featuring tiered pricing.
According to Domain Name Wire, Google Registry announced on January 16, 2025, plans to launch the .channel top-level domain next month, marking a significant development in domain name infrastructure. The launch follows a carefully structured timeline, with multiple registration phases designed to manage domain allocation systematically.
The Limited Registration Period, which began in late 2024, received an extension from its original December 1, 2024 deadline. According to Google Registry's official announcement made on January 7, 2025, this period will now conclude on February 3, 2025, at 16:00 UTC, providing additional opportunities for potential registrants.
Following the extended registration period, the launch sequence incorporates several distinct phases. A mandatory 24-hour quiet period will precede the Early Access Period, which commences on February 4, 2025. The Early Access Period implements a Dutch auction pricing mechanism, characterized by systematically decreasing prices over seven days.
According to Domain Name Wire's analysis of 101domain's pricing structure, the Early Access Period begins with an initial registration fee of $11,999 on day one. The pricing schedule then follows a descending pattern:
- Day one: $11,999
- Day two: $3,599
- Subsequent days: Continuing price reductions
- Final day: $149
The general availability phase initiates on February 11, 2025, at which point standard pricing takes effect. Industry observations indicate retail pricing will range between $20 and $30, with 101domain establishing specific price points of $19.99 for new registrations and $27.99 for renewals.
Technical specifications of the .channel domain include mandatory HSTS (HTTP Strict Transport Security) preloading, as confirmed by Google Registry's technical documentation. This security measure ensures all websites utilizing the .channel domain maintain secure HTTPS connections, implementing robust encryption protocols for data transmission.
The domain infrastructure operates under Google Registry's management, with Google's parent company Alphabet Inc. (NASDAQ: GOOG) overseeing the technical operations. The registry system processes all registrations through accredited domain registrars, maintaining compliance with ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) protocols.
The launch timing coincides with broader developments in the domain name industry. The introduction of .channel follows Google Registry's previous domain launches, including .meme in November 2023 and .ing in October 2023, demonstrating continued expansion of the top-level domain ecosystem.
Registration procedures follow established industry standards, with registrars implementing standard EPP (Extensible Provisioning Protocol) procedures for domain management. The technical infrastructure supports standard DNS functionality, including support for various record types such as A, AAAA, MX, and TXT records.
Domain registration policies specify technical requirements for name servers, with registrants required to maintain a minimum of two functional name servers for each registered domain. The registry implements standard grace periods for domain renewals and deletions, adhering to ICANN's consensus policies for domain lifecycle management.
Operational specifications include:
- Registry lock capabilities for enhanced security
- Support for IDN (Internationalized Domain Names) registrations
- Standard DNSSEC implementation options
- Compliance with RDDS (Registration Data Directory Services) requirements
- Implementation of URS (Uniform Rapid Suspension) and UDRP (Uniform Domain Name Dispute Resolution Policy) procedures
The domain launch represents a technical implementation of standard DNS infrastructure, expanding the namespace while maintaining established protocols for domain management and security. The tiered pricing model and phased launch schedule demonstrate structured approach to domain allocation, incorporating market dynamics into the registration process.