The .studio domain zone is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) primarily intended for individuals and organizations involved in creative industries, including film, music, photography, design, and other artistic endeavors. It serves as a digital space for studios, artists, and creative professionals to showcase their work, collaborate, and connect with audiences.
The .studio domain was introduced as part of the expansion of the domain name system, which aimed to accommodate the growing number of internet users and businesses. It was officially launched on March 21, 2014, as part of the new gTLD program initiated by the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN). The initiative was designed to increase competition and choice in the domain name market.
The .studio domain was proposed by the registry operator, Donuts Inc., which is known for managing a variety of new gTLDs that cater to specific niches and industries.
The .studio domain is currently managed by Donuts Inc., a leading registry operator that oversees numerous gTLDs. The management of the domain is subject to oversight by ICANN, which regulates domain name registrations and ensures compliance with established policies and procedures.
Anyone can register a .studio domain, making it accessible to a wide range of users, including individuals, businesses, and organizations. There are no specific restrictions based on citizenship or location, allowing global participation in the registration process.
The procedure for obtaining a .studio domain typically involves the following steps:
The .studio domain supports Internationalized Domain Names (IDN), allowing users to register domain names in various languages and scripts. The following technical specifications apply to .studio domains:
Like many gTLDs, the .studio domain has faced challenges related to abuse, including spam and phishing attempts. However, Donuts Inc. has implemented various security measures to mitigate these risks. These include:
The .studio domain has seen steady growth since its launch, with a significant number of registrations reflecting its popularity among creative professionals. As of October 2023, the total number of registered .studio domains is estimated to be in the tens of thousands.
The cost of registering a .studio domain varies by registrar but typically ranges from $10 to $50 per year, with renewal fees generally in the same range. Premium domains, which are considered highly desirable due to their short length or keyword relevance, may be priced significantly higher, often exceeding several hundred dollars.
The .studio domain zone serves as a valuable resource for creative professionals, offering a dedicated space to establish an online presence. With its accessible registration policy, technical capabilities, and ongoing efforts to maintain security and reputation, .studio continues to be an attractive option for those in the creative industries.