.app domain lifecycle
.app is operated by Google (Charleston Road Registry). Approximately 80 days from expiry to drop. Mobile app product pages, web apps, SaaS marketing sites.
At a glance
What .app is for
.app is operated by Google's registry subsidiary, Charleston Road Registry. It launched in 2018 and is notable for being the first TLD that requires HTTPS — every .app domain is on the HSTS preload list and browsers will refuse plain-HTTP connections.
Registrations are around 700,000 — modest compared to legacy TLDs but with strong brand recognition among software developers.
The lifecycle is the standard ICANN gTLD model. Pricing is mid-tier, lower than .io but higher than .com.
Best fit: Software products that want their TLD to signal "this is an app".
Special rules and quirks
- HTTPS is required by registry policy. Domains are on the HSTS preload list at the registry level.
- No plain HTTP browsing — connections will be redirected to HTTPS or refused.
- Operated by Google Registry, which gives the TLD strong technical infrastructure.
Buyer notes
- You must have a TLS certificate before launching anything on .app.
- Lifecycle matches .com exactly.
- Less competitive drop market than .com or .io.
Frequently asked questions
Why does .app require HTTPS?
Google added the entire TLD to the HSTS preload list as a registry policy. The goal was to ship a "secure by default" extension. Every .app site must serve over HTTPS.
How long does an expired .app take to drop?
About 80 days, standard 45+30+5 pattern.
Who operates the .app registry?
Google, through its Charleston Road Registry subsidiary.
Can I register .app for any project?
Yes. There is no app-specific verification, just open registration.
Is .app pricing stable?
Pricing has been stable since launch. Expect $15-$25 retail per year.
Related TLDs
References
Watch a domain you want to buy — snooze.domains tracks the lifecycle and emails you when it changes status. Free, up to 100 domains. Start watching — free