[lac-discuss-en] launch of the new gTLD program ; updated Applicant Guidebook

[Dev Anand Teelucksingh]

Via http://www.icann.org/en/announcements/announcement-11jan12-en.htm

"Starting today, ICANN begins accepting applications for new generic
top-level domains (gTLDs).  The world of .com, .gov, .org and 19 other
gTLDs will soon be expanded to include all types of words in many
different languages. For the first time generic TLDs can include words
in non-Latin languages, such as Cyrillic, Chinese or Arabic.
Applicants will use the TLD Application System (TAS) to submit their
application, in which they answer the 50 questions detailed in the
Applicant Guidebook.  Links to register in TAS are provided on the
ICANN New gTLD page.

12 January: ICANN begins accepting applications
29 March: The last day to register in TAS
12 April: Final day ICANN accepts applications

An updated version of the Applicant Guidebook was posted with the
opening of the application window. The updated version incorporates
clarifications made through responses previously published by the gTLD
customer service center. Main points of clarification are on topics
such as batching, background screening, the applicant support program,
Continued Operations Instrument, GAC advice processes, and the
registry code of conduct.

...ICANN encourages all interested parties, whether applicants or
observers, to refer to the New gTLD section of ICANN's website for
authoritative documents, helpful resources, and latest developments.
The New gTLD site is found at http://newgtlds.icann.org/


The updated Applicant Guidebook:
http://newgtlds.icann.org/en/applicants/agb/guidebook-full-11jan12-en.pdf
Summary of changes from last version of Applicant Guidebook:
http://newgtlds.icann.org/en/applicants/agb/summary-changes-applicant-guidebook-11jan12-en.pdf


Kind Regards,

Dev Anand Teelucksingh
LACRALO Secretariat