Predicted ‘go live’ date for online expansion shifts again (updated)

The timeframe for the launch of the first new gTLDs has proven somewhat fluid over the past year. As the programme has progressed - and timings have shifted - estimates for when the first gTLD will go live has changed from early 2013 to quarter two, then perhaps August. Last night the prediction shifted again, with ICANN’s chairman of the board claiming that the first root delegations will occur “towards the end of the year I think”. However, the pace of delegation could be speedier than anticipated.