Key Takeaways:
Brave is the first browser to launch its own blockchain-based domain with “.brave”. The domains are minted as NFTs on Polygon and support decentralized websites via IPFS. Plans are underway to register .brave with ICANN to bridge Web2 and Web3 by 2026.Brave has become the first web browser to introduce its own blockchain-based domain, launching the “.brave” top-level domain (TLD) in collaboration with Unstoppable Domains.
Minted as NFTs on the Polygon blockchain, .brave domains provide an alternative to complicated wallet addresses, allowing users to create personalized, human-readable identities, according to a recent announcement.
These domains function without renewal fees and support resolution across major networks including Ethereum, Solana, Base, Sonic, and Bitcoin.
.brave Domains Support Decentralized Websites
.brave domains also support decentralized websites via IPFS, accessible directly within the Brave browser.
“This is more than just a naming system — it’s about giving users control,” said Brave CTO and co-founder Brian Bondy. “.brave is a user-owned identity layer, fully integrated into the Brave ecosystem.”
The new domain system will roll out in version 1.81 of Brave Browser and Brave Wallet, initially through Nightly builds with a full release slated for August.
Despite the appeal, blockchain domains have yet to achieve widespread functionality across traditional internet infrastructure.
Since they operate outside the ICANN-regulated DNS system, they’re not yet universally accessible on all browsers.
However, Brave and Unstoppable Domains are aiming to change that, revealing plans to pursue ICANN registration for the .brave gTLD by 2026. This would allow the domain to work across both Web2 and Web3 environments.
With more than 85 million monthly active users, Brave has carved a space as a privacy-centric browser, though it still commands just 1% of the global browser market.
The .brave domain rollout follows Brave’s integration of the Cardano blockchain into its wallet.
Through a partnership with Input Output, the browser now supports Cardano for token management and blockchain access, broadening Brave Wallet’s multi-chain functionality.
Brave also hinted at future integrations with Cardano’s Midnight sidechain, which focuses on privacy and smart contracts.
Midnight could introduce NFT-based access models that mirror free app experiences in Web2, potentially changing how users interact with crypto-powered applications.
Digital Identities to Play Key Role in Future
Sandy Carter, COO of Unstoppable Domains, told Cryptonews that she sees digital identities playing a crucial role in various sectors, including healthcare.
“Imagine if your healthcare data was stored securely on the blockchain, accessible only with your digital identity,” she said. “This could prevent misdiagnoses and ensure timely access to critical medical information.”
Recently, Unstoppable Domains launched city-specific domains like .austin, which can be used for various purposes, including tokenizing personal documents and memberships.
“You can go online, purchase a domain like rachel.austin, and use it for all sorts of applications, including social media and crypto transactions,” Carter explained.
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