MMX launched the first phase of availability for the new .boston top level domain on 1 August.

The “Sunrise” phase gives Boston businesses with trademarks first priority in claiming their .boston domain names through August 31. The commencement of the Sunrise phase marks a 70-day countdown until general availability of .boston domains for the public on October 10, 2017.

The next and last phase before general availability — the community phase — will commence on August 8th, at which time .boston domain names will be made available to government entities and non-profit organisations at a discounted rate.

Starting on October 10th, names will be made available to the general public through leading registrars in the US on a first-come-first-served basis. A number of registrars will likely allow pre-registrations starting in mid-September when wider marketing initiatives for  .boston begin.

With the launch of .boston, Boston becomes only the fourth city in the US with a top level domain, providing a unique opportunity for Boston residents, businesses and local organizations to set themselves apart from competitors, and signal their direct association with “The Hub”.

“The rollout of .boston presents an exciting opportunity for the city of Boston,” said Solomon Amoako, VP of Channel Strategy at MMX . “Whether you’re an established brand looking to lay the cornerstone of your digital Boston real estate, a local not-for-profit group or business wanting to open more doors to your organisation with a unique URL, or just a passionate Bostonian looking to show pride in your city through your online presence, .boston has something for everyone.

MMX is the official registry services provider for .boston, supporting .boston’s marketing efforts and operating the technical infrastructure of the new TLD.

For more information on how to get a .boston domain name, please visit nic.boston.