Group One Registry Applies for 'Dot-one,' to Offer Numerical Internet Domain Names.

'Dot-one' enables each user, device to have their own domain name, expanding the Internet universe and creating a new ease of communication

Soon ".one" may be the number on the individual's doorway to the Internet universe.

That is the idea of Group One Registry, which has applied to establish ".one" as a new top-level domain (TLD).

The application was filed with the Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the international governing body for Internet domain names. "Through 'one,' we are opening the way for every Internet user and device to have an easily accessible, individual domain name," said Group One. "By emphasizing numerical domain names, we can enable the Internet to expand much more easily, far beyond the bounds of current language--based domains."

"Numerical domain names under 'one' are well-suited for use by manufacturers of 'smart' devices, ranging from personal digital assistants (PDAs) to game consoles, and automobiles and household appliances," Stahura said. Each device could be delivered to customers with its own ".one" domain name built in. Net TV, also expected to grow rapidly over the next few years, offers an additional area of potential demand. Demand for ".one" could increase even more as traditional PC users discover its benefits and move beyond the desktop to new devices that communicate over the Internet.

Group One Registry's proposal claims to fulfill a number of ICANN's stated objectives;

* Expand competition among Internet registries by opening up ".one" as a new top--level domain emphasizing individuals and devices. The company plans to sell its domain through registrars. worldwide, providing them with a new vehicle to increase competition as well.

* Reduce "cybersquatting." The use of numerical domain names reduces incentives to cybersquat and respects intellectual property rights.

* Extend the Internet's capabilities. The ".one" TLD opens up a new range of Internet services, based on both individual users and devices, and on numerical domain names. Imagine people using a familiar number, like a telephone number, to connect online to a cell phone, PDA, or game console."