Leading domain name registrar, Tucows (NASDAQ: TCX), has stepped into the web3 arena through its collaboration with a new entity, Orange Domains. The partnership aims to enhance the capabilities of the Bitcoin Name System (BNS) by incorporating decentralized applications (dApps) and introducing novel top-level domain (TLD) services. Orange Domains, with prominent partners including Trust Machines and Hiro Systems, plans to bridge the traditional Domain Names System (DNS) with web3 digital identities.
Expanding BNS Functionality:
Orange Domains, under the leadership of General Manager Don Ruiz, formerly associated with Automattic on the .blog project, envisions expanding the functionality of BNS. The company plans to develop previously unreleased DNS-based top-level domain names, providing registrants with augmented web3 features. The specifics of the domain names slated for release later this year remain undisclosed.
Strategic Distribution with Tucows:
The involvement of Tucows, the third-largest domain name registrar based on names under management, lends considerable strength to Orange Domains. Leveraging Tucows’ extensive network of resellers, Orange Domains aims to ensure broad distribution and accessibility for its web3 initiatives.
Web3 Trends in Domain Naming:
The convergence of DNS-based domains with web3 technologies has become a notable trend in the tech industry. Ethereum Name Service, a competitor to Bitcoin Name Service, allows users to link real domain names to its service, utilizing them as wallet addresses. Additionally, specific TLDs, such as .box, are introducing web3 connections, and Internet Naming Co. plans to unveil a web3 version of .vana domains later this year.
Web3 Identities and Real Domain Names:
Web3 identities, often referred to as domain names, face limitations in applications like email and websites. The prevailing approach involves utilizing real domain names that can serve as identifiers by integrating with web3. While current web3 functionalities are somewhat constrained, mainly using the domain as a wallet address, proponents anticipate the evolution of additional features over time.
Conclusion:
Tucows’ collaboration with Orange Domains signifies a significant move into the realm of web3 integration, bringing together the strengths of a major domain name registrar and a promising web3-focused entity. The partnership holds the promise of expanding the capabilities of the Bitcoin Name System and introducing innovative DNS-based top-level domain services. As the tech industry continues to witness the fusion of traditional DNS with web3 technologies, this collaboration positions Tucows and Orange Domains at the forefront of driving innovation in domain naming and digital identity.