Google to start domain name registry service
Internet giant says it has a pilot to offer domain names and related services to small businesses
Google has unveiled plans for its own domain name registration service.
The firm posted a message today saying is "testing" a service geared for small businesses to search and purchase domain names.
“We’re beginning to invite a small number of people to kick the tires on Google Domains a domain registration service we’re in the process of building. Businesses will be able to search, find, purchase and transfer the best domain for their business - whether it’s .com, .biz, .org, or any of the wide range of new domains that are being released to the web,” the posting said.
As online sales grow, Google hopes to become the go-to place for businesses to develop a website, beginning with the domain name.
Google said it is testing to make sure it offers the “right additional services, like mobile website creation tools and hosting services from a range of providers, as well as domain management support.”
Google said it has tied up with four firms that specialize in building websites — Squarespace, Wix, Weebly, and Shopify — to help businesses start out online.
Google's move comes just as GoDaddy, which has 57 million domain names under management, filed papers for an initial public offering.
As one of world's most popular online search engines, Google will have clout in managing domain names and marketing its ad services to small business.