Three people applied for their own name as top level domains – Domain Name Wire | Domain Name News

One application matches a first name and two match surnames.

Is having your own name as a top level domain the ultimate vanity?

Three new top level domain applications in this year’s round were selected, at least in part, because they’re backed by people whose first or last name matches the string.

First up is Knock Knock Whois There (Automattic) with .matt.

It selected this name because its founder and CEO is Matt Mullenweg. For some reason, he’s registered matt.TLD in dozens (hundreds?) of extensions.

While the venture’s investors might wonder about the expenditure, this domain could actually pay for itself. There are a lot of Matts out there.

But if I were named Matt, I don’t think I’d want surname.matt because it’s backward. Maybe iam.matt, doctor.matt, etc.

Next, Momentous Corporation applied for .hall.

The company’s application states:

.hall is an open, generic TLD open to everyone, but we believe it will have a unique appeal to live performing spaces across the globe. The application for .hall reflects the market realities confronting the music, theater and performing arts professions. As digital technologies and global high-speed internet access have undercut the profitability of pre-recorded performances, artists and venues have increasingly turned to touring and real-world “tent pole” events to earn sustainable income.

Whether its (sic) new halls (like Live Nation, etc.) or legacy halls (like Carnegie, Royal Albert and Suntory, etc.), this gTLD gives them all the opportunity not just to have a general internet address, but a short cut (sic) to building an audience and revenue. This will continue to grow as more venues bring their presence online and grow their online presence.

For example, Carnegie.hall or RoyalAlbert.hall or Suntory.hall can become the most effective way for performance venues and concert or theater goers to connect with their customers. That is our mission.

OK, but Momentous has some built-in customers. Its founder and CEO is Rob Hall. Its directors are Kiersten Hall and Anika Hall.

Something tells me rob.hall, kiersten.hall, and anika.hall will reserved.

Finally, an honorable mention.

Michael Blend of Endpoint Domains applied for .blend, but as a replacement string for .hero. Endpoint is the only applicant for .hero, so I don’t think the company will swap to .blend.

Let me know if I missed any.