Top-level domains add much needed specificity to addresses and broaden availability of domain names. Despite the fact that the creation of a new TLD is typically beneficial, it seems like the .xxx domain was a solution in search of a problem. The adult entertainment industry doesn’t want it, concerned parents don’t like it, and ICANN doesn’t want the hassle or responsibilities. It looks as though the only organizations that expressed support for .xxx where [sic] the domain registrars that stood to profit from domain sales.All in all, the decision is probably a sound one. No doubt it would have sent companies snapping up their associated .xxx names to prevent pornographers from getting there first.
In other news, ICANN did approve a .tel TLD, so registrars will still have something to sell corporations. You can all breathe a sigh of relief.