ICANN's 2026 Round overview now features an updated timeline running from the application period through milestones in 2027. ICANN notes that dates are subject to change.
The application submission period ran from 30 April to 12 August 2026. The Registry Service Provider (RSP) Evaluation Program's application period ran concurrently over the same dates.
Upcoming milestones shown on ICANN's timeline are:
- 7 October 2026 — Reveal Day. ICANN is scheduled to publish the list of applications proceeding through the program.
- 8–21 October 2026 — Replacement Period. Eligible applicants can switch to an eligible replacement string.
- 17 November 2026 — String Confirmation Day and start of String Evaluation.
- 17 November 2026–16 March 2027 — Community Input and Objections Period. The timeline notes this 104-day period includes ICANN's office closure from 19 December 2026 to 4 January 2027.
- 2027 — Prioritization Draw and other milestones. The date is still to be determined.
The timeline gives applicants and the wider community a high-level view of what follows the application window, while later milestones remain subject to further confirmation.