Currently, there is no Top-Level-Domain (TLD) specifically designated as .PIONEER. Top-level domain (TLD) refers to the last segment of a domain name or the part that follows immediately after the “dot” symbol. TLDs are mainly categorized into two types: generic TLDs (.com, .edu, .gov, .org) and country-specific TLDs (.us, .uk, .fr).
Creating a new top-level domain isn’t a simple process—it involves a lengthy application to the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), a non-profit organization responsible for coordinating the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to the namespaces of the internet, ensuring the network’s stable and secure operation. According to ICANN’s website, the sponsorship process can take years and involves a comprehensive evaluation process.
There have been numerous branded top-level domains in recent years. For instance, Google purchased .google, and Amazon got .amazon. These kinds of top-level domains were part of a program ICANN started in 2012.
While it’s entirely possible for Pioneer (if referring to the international corporation Pioneer Corporation) to apply for a .PIONEER top-level domain, as of the current date, there is no record of that domain existing in the ICANN delegations.
However, businesses can utilize TLDs to direct consumers better or to protect their brand. An excellent example of a branded domain within the tech industry is the “.apple” domain used by Apple Inc. on multiple sub-domains for various services.
In summary, the Top-Level-Domain (TLD) .PIONEER does not currently exist, but Pioneer could potentially apply for it via ICANN, following the precedent set by companies like Google and Amazon. This could potentially provide an efficient online navigation system or offer brand protection opportunities to the company.
Sources:
1. “About Top-Level Domains” from ICANN’s website: https://www.icann.org/resources/pages/about/gtlds
2. “General FAQs” on new gTLDs from ICANN’s website: https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/applicants/global-support/faqs/faqs-en
3. “Delegated Strings” from ICANN’s website: https://newgtlds.icann.org/en/program-status/delegated-strings.
4. “The Case for Brand-Specific TLDs” from brandingmag.com: https://www.brandingmag.com/2018/08/28/the-case-for-brand-specific-tlds/
