Orange Domains, the partnership connecting onchain utility with domains from Trust Machines, Tucows (NASDAQ: TCX), DISH, an EchoStar (NASDAQ: SATS) company, and Hiro Systems, has launched its first top-level domain (TLD), .locker. Offering a true Web3-connected solution to its users, .locker will unleash new opportunities for global domain owners while still providing traditional web domain functionality.
As a two-part solution, .locker provides both a Web2 domain name and corresponding digital identity, meaning that it is a TLD solution that bridges Web2 domains with Web3 digital identities, tying them to the same user. It is for Web3-curious and Web3-ready users who want the full functionality of their domain name — such as website and email capabilities — and a corresponding Web3 digital identity to use for specific applications like decentralized finance, managing crypto assets, and Web3 social networks.
Those who purchase a .locker domain will enjoy all the benefits they have come to expect from premium TLDs, as well as new Web3 interoperability with Bitcoin to trade, hold, and manage their digital assets. The .locker solution will function similarly to an NFT, secured by Bitcoin, enabling anyone to build a website, send an email, secure finances, art, contracts, and more from one single solution.
“Treating the Web3 digital identity as a domain name and adopting the Web2 process of mapping it to users, removes the friction for audiences to explore the growing Bitcoin blockchain ecosystem in a seamless manner,” said Don Ruiz, General Manager for Orange Domains, who formerly helped launch .blog for Automattic Inc. in 2016. “The feedback from the domain name community has been extremely positive with our approach.”
The .locker domain’s initial launch phase is exclusively for trademark holders registered in the Trademark Clearing House before opening to early access and the general public in September. .locker domains and Web3 digital identity can be renewed at the user’s registrar of record where their domain is currently managed.
“As one of the first public companies to accept Bitcoin as payment, as early as 2014, DISH, an EchoStar company, has always been a leader in innovation within its business and industry,” said Max Orcutt, Office of Innovation, EchoStar. “EchoStar continues to look for new ways to explore the rapidly changing world of connectivity, including our first-of-its-kind cloud-native Open RAN 5G network and within the DePIN and Web3 connectivity space.”
From freelance designers to writers and small businesses, .locker provides a solution that connects customer acquisition through payments and security for domain owners.
Orange Domains is grateful to ICANN for its efficient process, and many domain registrars are eager to offer .locker to their users.
To explore the possibilities of .locker, Bitcoin, and Web3 technology or to be part of a community that is shaping the future of decentralized innovation, visit my.locker.