TLDR

• Orange Domains launches ‘.locker’, a new top-level domain (TLD) with both Web2 and Web3 capabilities
• .locker provides a traditional domain name paired with a Bitcoin-secured digital identity
• The TLD is backed by Trust Machines, Tucows, DISH (an EchoStar company), and Hiro Systems
• .locker aims to bridge Web2 domains with Web3 digital identities
• The domain will be available to the general public in September after initial phases for trademark holders

Orange Domains has introduced a new top-level domain (TLD) called ‘.locker’ that aims to combine traditional web functionality with emerging Web3 capabilities.

This innovative domain offering provides users with both a standard domain name and a Bitcoin-secured digital identity, potentially bridging the gap between Web2 and Web3 technologies.

The .locker domain is the result of a partnership between several notable companies in the tech and blockchain space. Trust Machines, Tucows (a publicly traded company on NASDAQ), DISH (part of EchoStar, also NASDAQ-listed), and Hiro Systems have joined forces to back this new TLD.

Don Ruiz, General Manager for Orange Domains, explained the concept behind .locker:

“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.”

The .locker domain is designed to offer users the full functionality of a traditional domain name, including website hosting and email capabilities.

However, it goes a step further by providing a corresponding Web3 digital identity. This additional feature allows users to interact with decentralized finance applications, manage cryptocurrency assets, and engage with Web3 social networks.

One of the key features of .locker is its connection to the Bitcoin blockchain. The domain functions similarly to a non-fungible token (NFT) and is secured by Bitcoin.

This setup enables users to build websites, send emails, secure digital assets, and manage contracts all from a single solution.

The launch of .locker will occur in phases. Initially, it will be available exclusively to trademark holders registered in the Trademark Clearing House. Following this period, there will be an early access phase before the domain becomes available to the general public in September.

Max Orcutt from EchoStar’s Office of Innovation highlighted the company’s ongoing interest in blockchain technology:

“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.”

The .locker domain is positioned as a solution for a wide range of users, from freelance professionals to small businesses. It aims to connect customer acquisition through payments and provide security for domain owners in the evolving digital landscape.

Orange Domains has worked with ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers) to bring .locker to market. Many domain registrars are reportedly eager to offer .locker to their users, suggesting potential widespread adoption.