dotMobi today announced it is making domain names with one and two characters available. This would allow names like q.mobi, k9.mobi, 13.mobi or ny.mobi, which are hugely desired by brands that want short, snappy names.
In a recent domain auction, names like 88.com went for as much as $325,000. Short numeric domains are particularly valued by global brands, as there is no translation needed among countries.
From the release:
“One and two character domains are the most valuable – and often most expensive – domains when available,” said Trey Harvin, CEO of dotMobi. “Rather than selling these names, dotMobi is looking to provide these names to strong brands with high-quality mobile content. These short domains are highly memorable ways to reach mobile customers who are using the mobile Web in 2009 as never before. They also allow these companies to utilize dotMobi’s tools, resources, and marketing reach.”
What we think?
Very smart move by dotMobi. A major complaint from mobile web users is how long it takes to type a URL in, and this cuts that problem down to 5 or 6 letter addresses. It won’t address any of the larger problems with the mobile web, but it’s a nice little money spinner.
