When you are looking for a domain name, you want something that is secure, professional, and easy to remember. The .app domain checks all those boxes.

.app is a generic top-level domain (gTLD), which means it is a domain extension like .com or .org.

But unlike any other extension before it, .app was created by Google with a non-negotiable rule: every single website using it must be secure.

If you own a .app site, it must have an SSL certificate and load over a secure connection. That is not an option; it is a rule baked into the domain itself.

In this guide, you’ll read through everything you need to know about .app domains. You’ll know who manages it, what it costs, how people use it, if it is safe, and most importantly, how you can register one right here in Kenya.

Who Manages .app Domain?

The .app domain is managed by the Charleston Road Registry. This is a subsidiary of Google, which means its infrastructure is solid, well-funded, and built to last.

This subsidiary does business as Google Registry.

Unlike many other domain extensions where security is optional, Google enforces strict rules here. The .app domain is on the HSTS preload list. HSTS stands for HTTP Strict Transport Security. 

This means that when you type a .app address into a browser, it will automatically force a secure, encrypted connection. 

If a .app site tries to load without proper security, your browser will simply refuse to open it.

This shuts down any opportunity for hackers to intercept your data or spy on your activity. The protection is baked right in from the moment you type the address.

Quick Facts About .app

Fact	Details
Launched	May 2018 (General Availability)
Owner	Google (through Charleston Road Registry)
Security requirement	HTTPS mandatory — all .app sites must use SSL/TLS (no HTTP-only allowed)
Type	Generic TLD (gTLD)
Primary use	Mobile apps, web applications, developers, tech startups
Key feature	First TLD with enforced HTTPS built into its ICANN specification
Availability	Open to anyone worldwide
Domain length	1 to 63 characters (single-letter domains allowed)
IDN support	Yes (Internationalized Domain Names with non-Latin characters)
DNSSEC	Supported
WhoIs privacy	Available via GDPR-compliant privacy services
First-year registrations	Over 700,000
Registration period:	1- 10 years

What Is the .app Domain Used For?

You can use a .app domain for almost any website, but it definitely works best for certain types of projects, such as:

1) Mobile and Web Applications

This is what the domain was made for. If you have built a mobile app, a .app domain gives you a clean, obvious landing page.

If anyone comes to your site, they know they are in the right place to download your app or try your web-based application.

2) SaaS Platforms

If you run a software business, you probably have two sides to your online presence. There is your main company website where you market your product, and then there is the login page where your customers go to use it. 

Many SaaS companies use a .com domain for marketing and a .app domain for the login portal. It keeps things organized and tells users where they need to go.

3) Tech Startups and Portfolios

Are you a developer, freelancer, or someone building a tech startup? A .app domain gives you a short, professional web address that is easy to remember. 

It also sells you as focused on technology and digital products. It is definitely a detail that adds credibility.

4) E-commerce and Services

If your business runs through a mobile app or an online booking system, a .app domain assures your customers that you know your way around technology. 

It also sets the right expectation that they will get a smooth, digital-first experience when dealing with you.

How Much Does a .app Domain Cost?

The price for a .app domain varies depending on which registrar you use. Here is a comparison of current prices:

• Truehost: Ksh 1,370
• Namecheap: $12.98 (Approx. Ksh 1,700)
• GoDaddy: $19.99 (Approx. Ksh 2,600)

At Truehost, we offer the most competitive price. You also avoid the hassle of international bank fees and benefit from our support in Kenyan time zones. 

Plus, you can pay using M-Pesa, which makes the process much simpler.

Registration Information

Topic	Details
Registration period	1-10 years
Typical first-year price	$11–$50 USD (varies by registrar)
Typical renewal price	$30–$50 USD
Renewal Grace Period	40 days
Redemption period	30 days (after deletion)
Private/WHOIS Privacy	Available at most registrars
DNSSEC	Supported

Real Examples of Websites Using .app

Seeing how others use the .app domain can give you ideas for your own project. Check out these examples:

• wpmobile.app: A platform that sells mobile app solutions, specifically converting WordPress sites into mobile applications
• lena.app: A personal brand and portfolio website showcasing creative work and professional services.
• ohdear.app: Monitoring tool for websites and applications that tracks uptime, SSL certificates, and performance.
• cozzo.app: Foodtech company developing mobile technology for home food management and meal planning.
• thelocal.app: A mobile-friendly business directory helping users discover local services and establishments.
• fastbudget.app: A finance tool app designed to help users manage budgets and track expenses efficiently.

Is the .app Domain Safe?

Safety is one of the biggest selling points for .app. This is why:

Mandatory HTTPS

Because Google placed .app on the HSTS preload list, browsers automatically enforce HTTPS connections. 

If a site tries to load without a valid SSL certificate, your browser will block it. This prevents man-in-the-middle attacks and stops anyone from intercepting the data sent between your computer and the website.

Registry Stability

Since the domain is owned and operated by Google, the infrastructure is top-tier. This reduces the risk of domain hijacking or service outages that can sometimes happen with smaller, less established registries.

Quickest Way to Register a .app Domain

Truehost is the simplest and fastest way to register a .app domain and get your website running. 

Do this:

1. Visit the Truehost website.
2. Use the domain search bar to check if your desired .app name is available.
3. Select the domain and add it to your cart. Choose your preferred registration period (usually 1 year or more).
4. Complete the registration form with your business or personal details.
5. Complete your payment with your preferred payment method.

.app Domain FAQs

Can I register a .app domain if I don’t have an actual mobile app?

Yes. You do not need to own a mobile app or submit anything to the Play Store or App Store to register this domain. You can use it for any website, blog, or online portfolio. It is simply a web address.

Do I need to buy an SSL certificate separately for .app?

No. Because the .app domain requires HTTPS by default, most registrars, like Truehost, offer free SSL certificates, such as AutoSSL or Let’s Encrypt, to ensure your site loads correctly without browser errors.

How long does it take to activate a .app domain?

Activation is usually instant. Your domain will be active within minutes after payment confirmation. However, because of the enforced HTTPS, you might need to wait a few extra minutes for the SSL certificate to auto-provision so that your site displays securely.

Final Wrap on .app Domain

The .app domain offers a combination of security and branding that is hard to beat, especially for anyone in the tech space.

It is managed by Google, comes with mandatory security features such as forced HTTPS, and offers a memorable address that signals a digital-first approach.

If you have been thinking about a new domain for your project, business, or portfolio, register your preferred .app name before it is taken. 

You can get it at an affordable price with Truehost, pay conveniently with M-Pesa, and get local support when you need it.