New domain languages 'will improve accessibility'

The introduction of non-Roman language domain names will improve web accessibility for many people around the globe, it has been claimed.

Phil Kingsland, director of communications at Nominet UK, explained that for around half of the 1.6 billion internet users around the world, Latin-based tongues are not understood.

"Introducing domain names in languages such as Arabic and Chinese will enable users and consumers to have greater access to websites in those countries," he said.

"The key point about it is the people in those countries have to switch their keyboards to change it to Latin script, such as .cn, for China. So this move simplifies things for users," Mr Kingsland added.

He said the way the changes are being introduced mean various safeguards have been put in place, so security should not be affected.

In other recent domain name consultancy news, Patricio Robles told Econsultancy that catchy web addresses are important for businesses looking to build a strong online brand.

Written by Debra Hastings-Henry