Skip to main content

A new launch in the adult themed gTLD space.

The Registry operator of dotXXX, ICM Registry, will launch dotSEX on the 1st September 2015. This gTLDs will accompany the existing dotXXX gTLD launched in 2011 and the dotADULT and dotPORN gTLDs which were launched in March 2015

Adult themed gTLDs are specifically designed for the benefit of the global online adult entertainment industry and are expected to attract significant registration volumes during the open general availability phase. Trademark holders and brands will have the possibility to secure their rights prior to the general launch in one of two phases.

Unlike the dotXXX gTLD there will be no option to “block” a domain from being registered as the Registry is operating the dotSEX gTLD independently of dotXXX, dotADULT and dotPORN and with no specific registration requirements. Domain registration is the only effective way of blocking others from using terms you have rights in or wish to protect.

Registration Phases

Trademark Clearinghouse (TMCH) Sunrise

1st September 2015 – 1st October 2015

The Registry will operate a standard TMCH sunrise which is open for 30 days from 1st September 2015 until 1st October 2015. This phase will operate on a First Come First Serve (FCFS) basis for validated and active marks in the TMCH. The Registry has agreed to waive their Sunrise Application Fee to TMCH holders and will offer registration without a Sunrise premium during this phase. Although a formal blocking product is not offered by the registry, Ascio is able to offer 5 and 10 year discounted registrations during Sunrise, with registrations directed to an appropriately worded landing page, effectively replicating a 5 or 10 year block. As this is an FCFS Sunrise customers wishing to protect their rights are encouraged to place orders prior to launch and ensure the relevant marks are registered in the TMCH.

dotXXX Sunrise B Applicants and Domain Matching

5th October 2015 – 30th October 2015

After the mandated Sunrise period the Registry will operate a limited eligibility phase. During this phase former dotXXX Sunrise B applicants from 2011 and existing dotXXX registrants will be given priority to register directly matching strings under the dotSEX TLD, if still available after the mandated TMCH Sunrise. As there were multiple Sunrise B blocks granted during the .xxx launch this phase will also operate on a FCFS basis. Similar to the TMCH Sunrise, Ascio offers 5 and 10 year blocking registration products described above.

General Availability

4th November 2015 – ongoing

After the two initial phases the gTLD will then move to general availability when registration will be offered without eligibility requirements. This phases is suitable for brand holders that do not have a TMCH registration or matching dotXXX domain, the products available from Ascio are annual registrations or 5 and 10 year blocking registrations.

Each launch phase of dotSEX is available at the same registration rate and Ascio customers interested in protecting their rights are advised to do so in the earliest possible phase.

Please contact your Ascio Account Manager who will advise you which phase you will be eligible to register in.