.locker launches, *ape apes in: Blockchain names

A couple of blockchain-connected names launch this stretch.

Image of *ape names for bored ape yacht club, with picture of ape sitting on a chair

This stretch, there are a couple of interesting launches in the blockchain naming space.

First up, Orange Domains is launching .locker in general availability on Wednesday.

.Locker is a “real” top level domain name with web functionality. But it also has web3 technology thanks to integration with the Bitcoin Naming System (BNS) .

The Early Access phase ends today, and there are regarding 50 domains in the .locker zone as of right now. On Wednesday, registrars counting GoDaddy and Namecheap will start offering the domains at regular prices.

It appears most registrars will charge regarding $70-$90 per year, although 101Domain is right now offering the first year for just $29.99.

Separately, D3 disclosed the launch of *ape today, targeted at the Bored Ape Yacht Club community.

The firm uses a * instead of a . since the name is not a real domain yet. That will require the firm to successfully obtain the domain through ICANN’s fresh top level domain program.

For now, clients can secure a *ape name with web3 functionality. If the firm successfully obtains .ape, then general web capabilities will be added.

*Ape names are selling for the equivalent of $30.