Understanding the new Applicant Guidebook

Post ICANN84 Review and Discussion

Fresh from ICANN84 in Dublin, the next round of new gTLD applications is less than six months away. Discover what's in the newly approved applicant guidebook, when the application window opens, and what prospective applicants need to know now. Plus, we dive into the heated DNS abuse policy debate and explore the latest developments in the Registration Data Request Service. Don't miss these critical post-ICANN84 updates that could shape your domain strategy.

Understanding the new Applicant Guidebook

If you’re thinking about applying for a new gTLD in the next round, understanding the new Applicant Guidebook (AGB) is absolutely essential. In this episode, we explain why the AGB matters so much and what’s changed since the last round. We walk you through the key rules, timelines, and new features, including how to handle contention sets, how dot brands are treated, and what’s no longer required. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or returning for another round, getting to grips with the AGB early will give you a real strategic advantage. We’re here to help you make sense of it all. This is a must-listen for anyone serious about securing a new TLD in 2026.

Post ICANN83 Review and Discussion

In this episode, we unpack key updates from ICANN 83 including the long-awaited draft Applicant Guidebook and the next round of new gTLD applications. Ashley Roberts breaks down the application fee, implications for dot Brands, and the latest on the registry agreement. Susan Payne discusses the growing momentum around DNS abuse policies, and Sophie Hey explores the state of registration data initiatives including the RDRS, Privacy and Proxy Service Accreditation, and Registration Data Accuracy.

Post ICANN82 Review and Discussion

In this episode of the Com Laude podcast, Sophie Hey and Susan Payne discuss the key takeaways from the recent ICANN 82 meeting. They cover the progress on the next round of new gTLDs, recent developments in dot brand TLDs, the importance of domain name registration data accuracy, and the ongoing challenges of DNS abuse. The conversation highlights the collaborative efforts within the ICANN community to address these critical issues and the implications for stakeholders.

[WEB3] The Future of Blockchain Domains and Web 3

In our 15th episode of the Com Laude Podcast, we take a deep dive into blockchain domains — where they’ve been, where they are now, and where they’re heading in 2025 and beyond. * What exactly are blockchain domains, and how do they compare to traditional DNS? * Key players like ENS, Unstoppable Domains, and Handshake—who’s leading the charge? * How ICANN’s next round of new gTLDs could shape the Web3 landscape. * The role of brands in this evolving space—defensive registrations or untapped opportunities? Whether you’re a Web 3 enthusiast, brand manager, or domain industry expert, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.