Using your .app

What is a .app domain good for?

A .app is built for apps. Google Registry calls .app "a more secure domain for apps" and suggests it for download links, deep linking, screenshots, release notes and reviews. Claim the same name on the App Store and Google Play; rules and prices are on the .app checker.^{[1, 2]}

How do you set up HTTPS on a .app?

Let your host turn it on, or run a certificate client on your own server. Let's Encrypt certificates are free.

Sources ^{[1, 4, 5]}

Does email on a .app need anything special?

No. The HTTPS rule covers websites, so set up email as on any domain. Gmail requires SPF or DKIM from every sender, and SPF, DKIM and DMARC from anyone sending over 5,000 messages a day.^{[1, 6]}

What does a .app cost after the first year?

$14.93 a year at Porkbun, after $8.75 the first year. Premium names carry a higher yearly fee, which your registrar shows before you buy. Compare endings by renewal price.^{[3, 7]}

Can you test a .app site over plain HTTP?

No. Browsers apply the HTTPS rule to every .app name and all its subdomains, including internal ones that aren't public. Test and staging sites need certificates too.^{[1, 5]}

Is there a discount on a first .app?

Yes, for one year. Google Registry offers a discount code on standard-price names through two partners, Porkbun and Encirca. Premium names are left out. Students can also get one through Name.com's offer in the GitHub Student Developer Pack.^{[10, 11]}

Does a .app rank worse on Google than a .com?

No. In 2015, Google said its systems treat new endings like .com and .org, and that keywords in an ending give no advantage or disadvantage. It treats .app as generic, not tied to a country. For search and AI steps, see Using your .com; they work the same on a .app.^{[8, 9]}