Two weeks ago, it was reported that the code library for new generic top-level domains had not been updated since November 2015. For this reason, the popular WhatsApp messenger, as well as many Android applications, do not treat domains delegated after this date as domains and do not automatically convert them into hyperlinks in messages.
The problem was initially discovered by Rami Schwartz, Head of Latin American Telecom, which runs the new gTLD .TUBE. He assumed that WhatsApp was only being unfair to “his” domain. But a deeper dive revealed that the problem affects 468 new gTLDs. Schwartz has repeatedly drawn the attention of ICANN representatives to this situation and even reproached the corporation for not paying due attention to the issue of universal acceptance, which has been declared one of ICANN's strategic priorities.
Now we can say that the efforts of Rami Schwartz and the Latin American Telecom registry have finally been crowned with success. According to Domain Incite, the code library was updated in mid-September, and all domains delegated after November 2015 are recognized by WhatsApp and Android applications and converted into hyperlinks. “This story exemplifies how the perseverance of a small company unearthed a Universal Acceptance issue of global significance, rallying the support of industry leaders and setting a precedent for cooperation that can positively impact billions of internet users,” said a message on the Latin American Telecom website.
