What Is The .apple Domain?
.apple is a generic top-level domain (gTLD) owned and operated exclusively by Apple Inc. Unlike standard domains such as .com or .org, .apple is a brand-specific namespace introduced under ICANN’s new gTLD program. It is a closed domain, meaning Apple is the sole registrant and controls all use of .apple domains for its own purposes.
Purpose & Usage
Apple uses the .apple domain to enhance brand security, reduce risk of phishing, and maintain tighter control over its digital properties. These domains may support internal systems, secure communications, and official marketing channels. Public registration is not allowed, reinforcing its closed and trusted status.
Background & Delegation
The .apple domain was officially delegated on 27 October 2015 and registered on 2 July 2015. Apple’s application and delegation were processed through ICANN and IANA, under the coordination of Public Technical Identifiers (PTI), ensuring compliance with global internet infrastructure standards.
Sponsoring & Technical Operations
The sponsoring and administrative organisation is Apple Inc., based at 1 Infinite Loop, Cupertino, California. Technical operations are handled by Afilias, which manages the domain’s DNS infrastructure.
Technical Details
- Sponsoring Organisation: Apple Inc., Cupertino, California, USA
- Administrative Contact: ngtld-apple@cscglobal.com
- Technical Contact: tld-tech-poc@afilias.info
- WHOIS Server: whois.nic.apple
- RDAP Server: https://rdap.identitydigital.services/rdap/
- Name Servers:
- a0.nic.apple – 65.22.60.1 / 2a01:8840:3a::1
- a2.nic.apple – 65.22.63.1 / 2a01:8840:3d::1
- b0.nic.apple – 65.22.61.1 / 2a01:8840:3b::1
- c0.nic.apple – 65.22.62.1 / 2a01:8840:3c::1
Registry & Access
The domain is not publicly accessible for registration. All .apple domain operations and registrations are managed internally by Apple. Official information and services related to .apple can be found through Apple’s main website at www.apple.com or via WHOIS lookup at whois.nic.apple.
Summary
.apple is part of a growing trend among major technology companies to own and operate proprietary top-level domains. It gives Apple full control over its web namespace, supporting brand integrity, technical performance, and secure digital communications.
