{
  "id": 12352491,
  "title": "The Internet Runs on Cats and Porn. It’s About to Get Cattier and Pornier",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/06/the-internet-runs-on-cats-and-porn-its-about-to-get-cattier-and",
  "topic": "tech",
  "section": "Tech",
  "published": "2026-10-06T10:00:00.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Wired",
    "slug": "wired",
    "url": "https://www.wired.com/story/icann-top-level-domains-meow/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In 2026, the internet is set to expand with the introduction of new top-level domains, or TLDs. The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN), the governing body responsible for managing domain names and IP addresses, is set to open applications for these new TLDs. ICANN, which has been independent of US control since its inception, is hosting its 86th in-person meeting in Seville, Spain.\n\nThe gathering, attended by thousands from 100 countries, is a mix of tech giants, domain registrars, UN agencies, non-profits, academics, and legal experts. Despite its complex makeup, the focus remains on maintaining the stability and security of the internet without censorship. ICANN's primary rule is to ensure the internet remains free from censorship, a principle that was tested when Ukraine requested the shutdown of Russian top-level domains in 2022.\n\nAs the window for applying for new top-level domains closes on August 12, the anticipation is high. ICANN expects over 1,600 applications, leading to a public list release on October 7. While many applicants remain secretive about their plans, some have gone to extreme lengths to protect their ideas. One applicant even hired celebrities like Ron Jeremy and Stormy Daniels as brand spokespeople to avoid digital leaks.\n\nThe idea of new TLDs has sparked mixed reactions. While some envision a future where these domains become personal brands and identities on the internet, others question the practical necessity of such a vast expansion. The 2012 round introduced over 1,200 new TLDs, many of which failed to gain traction. Nonetheless, the prospect of a more expressive internet is enticing, with many expecting domains to become a part of our online identities, similar to how people now use usernames on social media platforms.",
  "summary": "Soon, hundreds of new top-level domains, including .meow and .fart, could be added to the internet. WIRED goes inside the backroom shenanigans of ICANN, the organization at the helm.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}