Amazon has announced the upcoming launch of three new top-level domains, .FREE, .HOT and .SPOT. The company secured these domains over eight years ago during the first phase of ICANN’s new gTLD program. Amazon paid $2.2 million to win the ICANN auction for .SPOT and also won in private auctions for .FREE and .HOT domains. While the amounts paid to other bidders remain undisclosed, they were likely substantial.
Despite acquiring the domains years ago, Amazon has only now moved forward with their launch. On April 2, the Sunrise Period will begin, allowing trademark holders to register domain names in these zones. On May 12−17, and Early Access Period will follow, operating as a Dutch auction – prices will start high and decrease daily. According to Domain Name Wire, initial prices could be around $6,000 on the first day, dropping to $3,000 on the second day and tapering off at $200 on the final day.
Registrars will set their own pricing. For example, 101Domain lists annual registration fees as follows: $29.99 for .SPOT, $44.99 for .FREE and $59.99 for .HOT. Starting May 19, these domains will be open for public registration at regular pricing.
