The term “top-level domain” (TLD) typically refers to the last part of a domain name – the letters that come after the final dot. Examples include .com, .org, .gov, .edu, .net, and so forth. Currently, The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is the entity responsible for managing these domains (icann.org).
However, to date, there is no .open TLD registered with ICANN. When someone needs a new TLD, they have to apply for it through ICANN’s New gTLD (generic top-level domain) Program. This program was designed to increase competition and choice in the domain name space. As of now, the application window for new TLDs is not open. The last application window closed in 2012, where ICANN received 1930 applications for new TLDs (icann.org).
As to your specific inquiry, “.open” does not exist as a TLD currently. If someone desires this domain, they would have to follow ICANN’s application process when it reopens for new TLDs and meet the established criteria.
It’s worth mentioning that the process of obtaining a new TLD is quite involved and costly. According to ICANN, the evaluation fee for applying for a new TLD was $185,000, and there were also annual costs associated with the continued operation of the domain after approval (icann.org).
Nevertheless, a number of non-traditional TLDs have been created through this process – like .pizza, .reviews, or .ninja, as well as brand-centric domains like .google or .apple. While it may seem odd to the average internet user, these new TLDs offer businesses and organizations new ways to present and market themselves online.
To summarize, the .open TLD does not currently exist, as per ICANN’s officially registered TLDs list. If someone would like to introduce it, wait until the next application period for new TLDs is announced by ICANN, then entire the costly and detailed process of application.
Sources:
(1) ICANN – Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers – www.icann.org
(2) ICANN’s New gTLD (generic top-level domain) Program – https://newgtlds.icann.org
