The Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has approved the .mobi domain name extension.

The mobile phone industry has created this domain name becuase they say it will improve the way mobiles surf the net. They also say that the .mobi domains will create a “reliable and recognizable mechanism for internet content and services that are specifically tailored to a mobile experience”.

It is estimated that the first domain names will be available during the first half of 2006, starting with a 90 day sunrise period, allowing corporations with trademark validated names to secure a .mobi domain. Generic second level domain names will be available on a first come, first served basis, after the sunrise period.