Identity Digital Limited (.mobi)

The .mobi domain extension was created to serve websites that are designed for mobile devices. It is a generic top-level domain sponsored and operated by Identity Digital Limited. There are no strict eligibility restrictions; anyone can register a .mobi name through an ICANN accredited registrar. The idea behind .mobi was to give mobile content a clear home on the web. It launched in 2005 after receiving ICANN approval. The domain is now managed by Identity Digital, which also runs many other TLDs. Website owners often use .mobi to signal that a site is optimized for smaller screens and touch interfaces. Over the years, the rise of responsive design has made device specific domains less critical, but .mobi still sees use for mobile focused projects and marketing.

.mobi was one of the first sponsored TLDs approved by ICANN specifically for mobile content. It was delegated in October 2005 following a report evaluating its purpose and technical requirements. The domain was initially backed by a consortium of mobile industry companies including Google, Microsoft, Nokia, and Vodafone. Identity Digital (formerly Afilias) took over sponsorship and operations. The extension was meant to help users find mobile friendly sites before responsive design became standard.