Today, June 13, 2012, the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) released a list of more than 1,900 new generic Top-Level Domain Names that have been applied for as part of ICANN’s global expansion of the domain name system. The list of new gTLDs can be viewed here.

ICANN is providing a short time period for interested parties to file public comments and/or formal objections to any proposed gTLDs. Failure to act during the objection period may preclude entities from challenging the activation of new gTLDs in the future.

Brand owners and organizations around the world are strongly advised to take advantage of this limited opportunity to identify any candidate gTLDs that may create competitive threats to their businesses, confusion in the marketplace, or otherwise violate legal rights.

Arent Fox has substantial experience in assisting clients with assessing and resolving domain name disputes. Our attorneys are ready to provide advice and assistance to protect our clients' rights from the myriad risks and challenges presented by the new domain name launch.