dotMobi to auction top-drawer names

dotMobi, the company behind the newly launched mobile top level domain, has revealed more details on when enterprises and Joe Public can get their hands on a domain name.

It's also launching a 'premium name' service for some brand holders in conjunction with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Trademark holders will be able to register from 15 September to 13 October, dotMobi said.

According to dotMobi the premium name list contains desirable domain names which include commonly used words. Trademark owners will need to show their brand connection to the words to have the domain in question removed from the list and registered in their name.

To qualify for the posh registration, would-be mobile internet companies will need to have registered their marks before 11 July 2005 and have used them for five years "in good faith".

From 13 October, Joe Public will get access to buy the premium names. The top-notch domains will be sold in batches either via a tender process or at auction and distributed in batches during 2008.