.app domains
.app is a generic top-level domain operated by Charleston Road Registry, a subsidiary of Google. It was one of the most anticipated new gTLDs introduced under ICANN's expansion program and launched for general availability in May 2018 after a competitive sunrise period. Notably, .app was the first TLD to be included in browsers' HTTPS Strict Transport Security (HSTS) preload list at the registry level, meaning all .app domains are required to use HTTPS — a security-forward policy that set a new standard for the broader domain industry.
Whether you're an indie developer launching your first mobile app or an enterprise publishing a full software suite, .app is the domain extension built for software products of every kind. Operated by Google and open to anyone worldwide, it pairs a self-descriptive name with a built-in security requirement: every .app domain must serve content over HTTPS, ensuring encrypted connections for all visitors. Clean, recognizable, and instantly understood by technical and non-technical audiences alike, .app is a compelling modern alternative when your preferred .com is taken.
What to know
- - .app is operated by Charleston Road Registry, a subsidiary of Google.
- - All .app domains require HTTPS — the TLD is included in browsers' HSTS preload list, making unencrypted connections impossible by design.
- - The mandatory HTTPS requirement means a valid SSL certificate must be installed before any .app website will load in a browser.
- - The extension launched with one of the highest levels of demand of any new gTLD, attracting significant interest from developers and technology companies worldwide.
- - Registration is open to anyone globally with no eligibility requirements beyond the universal HTTPS mandate.
Who uses .app
Mobile Apps
The natural choice for iOS and Android app landing pages — visitors immediately understand what they are about to find before they even click.
Web Applications
Ideal for browser-based SaaS tools and productivity platforms that want a domain reinforcing the software-first nature of their product.
Developer Portfolios
A strong fit for individual developers showcasing their projects and skills under a domain that signals technical credibility.
Product Launches
Well suited for dedicated launch pages and microsite campaigns for new software products targeting tech-savvy early adopters.
Startup Branding
A modern and credible alternative to .com for tech startups when the preferred .com name is unavailable and a clean, widely recognized extension is needed.
Naming guidance
Because .app already communicates software, you don't need to include the word "app" in the domain name itself — your brand or product name alone works well. Keep it short and easy to spell, and remember that a valid SSL certificate must be installed before your site will load in any browser.
Check availability
Search for your name as a .app domain.
.app vs the alternatives
When to choose a different extension instead.
Choose .io if your product is more developer-tool or API-focused and you want an extension with strong developer community associations.
Choose .ai if your application is built around artificial intelligence or machine learning and you want the extension to reflect that focus.
Choose .com if your audience skews non-technical and you want the broadest possible recognition and trust across all demographics.
Choose .dev if your site is primarily aimed at developers and engineers rather than end users of the finished application.
Choose .software if your product is desktop or enterprise software rather than a consumer-facing app and you want a more specific descriptor.
Pricing
Register
$23.00/yr
Renew
$23.00/yr
Transfer
$23.00/yr
Registration and renewal prices are the same - no introductory rates.
Free WHOIS privacy included on this extension.
HTTPS is mandatory — this TLD is HSTS preloaded.
Already own a .app domain?
Transferring a .app domain to Bitfoo is straightforward. Transfer pricing is listed above, and your existing registration period carries over. If you have questions before transferring, open a pre-sales ticket and we'll confirm the details.
Open a transfer enquiry →Pair your domain with
Web Hosting
LiteSpeed web hosting for landing pages, content sites, and lightweight web applications.
VPS Hosting
Dedicated resources and full control for applications, services, and higher-traffic projects.
SSL Certificates
HTTPS protection for your domain, with free Let's Encrypt SSL included on Bitfoo hosting plans.
Related extensions
.io
The .io domain is the most widely adopted tech-sector domain extension outside of .com, recognized globally as a signal of technology, innovation, and startup culture.
.ai
Whether you're launching an AI startup, a machine learning platform, or a tech product with artificial intelligence at its core, .ai is the domain extension the industry has rallied around.
.co
The .co domain is a globally recognized, open alternative to .com with no registration restrictions.
.dev
The .dev domain is the go-to extension for software developers, engineering teams, and technology projects.