In connection with the roll-out of the .mobi top level domain, dotMobi (mTLD Ltd.) has chosen to reserve and allocate a number of common words and phrases in an equitable manner other than a traditional “first-come, first-served” basis. This is in line with dotMobi’s contract with ICANN. The objective of the Premium Name list is to:

* create a more level playing field in the allocation of these names

* increase the likelihood that these domain names will more promptly provide the mobile community with new features and services

* preserve the stability and security of registry operations

The Premium Name Application Process for Trademark Holders ran from 12 noon GMT on 15th September to 12 noon GMT on 13th October 2006 and was administered by the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO). Now that the WIPO process has concluded, dotMobi has commenced the allocation process for the remainder of Premium Names. Sales are ongoing until 2008 through Auction and Request for Proposal (RFP) processes.

* Read further details about Premium Name Sales

* For additional information on our Premium Name List and Process, see the FAQs below

* To see the list of Premium Names, see our list as an Adobe PDF file or a MicroSoft Excel file

* Read further details on the now closed WIPO Process

* Read here for information about the Reserved Names

FAQs

Q: What is a premium name?

A: The premium name list is a compilation of commonly used (“generic”) words and phrases which dotMobi (mTLD, Ltd.) has set aside for equitable allocation using other than a traditional first come first serve basis.

Q: How was the list created?

A: The premium name list was primarily created using objective criteria compiled through third-party sources. Although the original compilation was composed primarily of English words and phrases, a subset of these words and phrases were translated into additional core languages. In creating this premium name list, dotMobi sought the input and feedback from its Policy Advisory Board (PAB) which approved the framework that dotMobi has followed.

Q: What is the objective of the premium name list?

A: To create a more leveled playing field in the allocation of these names, increase the likelihood that these domain names would more promptly provide the mobile community with new features and services, optimize the user experience and preserve the stability and security of registry operations.

Q: When will the Premium Names be made available to the general public and how will they be allocated?

A: Now that the four-week Premium Name Application Process for Trademark Holders (see below for details) has concluded,, dotMobi will commence allocation of the remainder of Premium Names in batches through to 2008 using an equitable allocation process.

A subset of the premium names will be sold via a Request for Proposal [RFP] process. RFP submittals will be evaluated for benefit to mobile users. The remainder of premium names will be sold via auctions, both live and online. Additional information is available here.

Q: Why has dotMobi chosen to allocate Premium Names by auction and RFP?

A: Premium Names are valuable names within the domain space. An auction process allows a Premium Name to go to the highest bidder; however, the purpose of an RFP process is to level the playing field, to ensure content-rich dotMobi sites and to ensure the delivery of new products and services to the mobile community. Both allocation processes have ICANN approval.