Exploring the Future of Anime with .ANIME Domain Initiative
Entering a New Era for Anime with .ANIME
.ANIME has announced its intention to apply for the upcoming ICANN new gTLD round, marking a pivotal moment in establishing anime culture's presence on the global internet.
Background and Vision of .ANIME
Launched initially as a Web3 domain in mid-2024, .ANIME was the first initiative to express, through Kintsugi Global and Unstoppable Domains, its ambition to obtain ICANN recognition. Since its first revelation, both companies have been actively preparing for the official application process.
If the application is successful, .ANIME will join the ranks of popular domain extensions like .com and .org. This pioneering step will create one of the first fandom-driven top-level domains (TLD) designed to function effectively across both Web2 and Web3 platforms, presenting new opportunities for anime fans, creators, and companies alike. This unique combination will allow for traditional functionalities, such as websites and email, while also maintaining essential Web3 features, including on-chain profiles and payments.
Statements from Leadership
Ron Scovil, CEO and founder of Kintsugi Global, expressed the need for this innovation: "The anime economy is global, but access and identity have not kept pace with the size of the community. By applying .ANIME through ICANN, we’re opening the door for fans, creators, and brands to engage across traditional and decentralized platforms. This is about giving anime a home online that reflects both its cultural depth and its worldwide reach."
Sandy Carter, Chief Business Officer of Unstoppable Domains, underscored the significance of this initiative. "Anime is one of the largest cultural movements globally, with an estimated fan base of nearly three billion people. Bringing .ANIME into the ICANN process represents an important step in bridging fan culture across Web2 and Web3, ensuring that anime communities worldwide have a secure, accessible, and verifiable digital identity that operates seamlessly online."
Kintsugi Global's Legacy
Kintsugi Global is led by Ron Scovil, who has amassed over 35 years of experience in anime and manga media. His efforts have profoundly influenced the modern anime economy, with several significant achievements, such as:
- Creating a $13.5 Billion North American Manga Market: By co-founding TokyoPop, which introduced Sailor Moon to Western audiences, and pioneering the girls’ manga demographic.
- Gaining Recognition from Japan’s Ministry of Education: Honored for translating Genji Monogatari, showcasing the cultural authenticity and trust in Kintsugi's stewardship of Japan's literary heritage.
- Success in Media Exits: Including the $75 million sale of Mixx Entertainment and involvement in the $3.5 billion acquisition of Fox Family/Saban, with over 4 million graphic novels sold.
The Economic Impact of Anime
Anime has emerged as one of Japan’s most influential cultural exports, generating over $34 billion annually, with industry projections suggesting growth to $47 billion by the 2028 horizon. The move to integrate .ANIME into ICANN symbolizes a broader evolution as domain initiatives arising from Web3 seek acknowledgment in the global internet framework.
The official application process by ICANN is anticipated to commence in the near future.
Connecting with Unstoppable Domains
For those interested in securing a .ANIME domain, they are currently available through various platforms, allowing enthusiasts and creators to solidify their online presence.
About Unstoppable Domains
Founded in 2018, Unstoppable Domains stands as an ICANN-accredited registrar and a leading digital identity platform. Committed to onboarding users into the decentralized web, they provide blockchain-registered domains that grant users complete control and ownership of their digital identities, eliminating renewal fees. Users can transition lengthy alphanumeric addresses into user-friendly domain names that simplify interactions with apps, wallets, exchanges, and marketplaces.
About Kintsugi Global
Kintsugi Global, established in 2021, draws inspiration from the Japanese art of mending broken objects with gold to produce something exceptionally valuable. Their mission is to foster a more equitable ecosystem within anime, manga, gaming, and music industries, utilizing cutting-edge technologies to benefit fans, artists, and studios alike.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the .ANIME domain?
The .ANIME domain aims to strengthen the online identity of anime culture, supporting fan engagement across both traditional web and decentralized platforms.
Who are the key players behind the .ANIME initiative?
The initiative is led by Kintsugi Global and Unstoppable Domains, both of which have extensive experience in the entertainment and web domain industries.
What is the projected timeline for the ICANN application process?
The formal ICANN application process is expected to open in the near future, though specific dates have yet to be confirmed.
How will .ANIME benefit the anime community?
.ANIME will provide a secure and verifiable digital identity for fans, creators, and brands, enhancing their online presence and accessibility.
What are the broader implications of this initiative?
This initiative reflects a trend in integrating Web3 technologies into mainstream internet use, potentially transforming how cultural movements like anime establish themselves online.
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