In a bold move toward decentralized identity and web infrastructure, Brave, the privacy-first web browser, has announced the launch of “.brave” — its own blockchain-based top-level domain (TLD).
Developed in collaboration with Unstoppable Domains, the initiative marks the first time a browser has introduced its own native, onchain domain system.
A Human-Readable Identity Layer for Web3
The .brave domains are designed to replace complex crypto wallet addresses with human-readable names, making blockchain interactions simpler and more intuitive for users. Minted as non-fungible tokens (NFTs) on the Polygon blockchain, each domain offers true user ownership with no renewal fees — a major departure from traditional domain registrars.
The domains are interoperable across multiple blockchain networks, including:
This cross-chain compatibility enhances their utility in the broader Web3 ecosystem.
A Gateway to Decentralized Web Hosting
One of the standout features of .brave is support for decentralized website hosting via IPFS (InterPlanetary File System). Users can publish and access censorship-resistant content using their .brave domain — all natively integrated within the Brave browser.
This native functionality means users don’t need special extensions or settings to resolve .brave domains or access decentralized sites. It brings a frictionless experience to Web3 while remaining aligned with Brave’s core values of privacy, user control, and decentralization.
A Vision for Web3 Identity
“Our mission is to put privacy, ownership, and control back in the hands of users,” said Brian Bondy, CTO and co-founder of Brave. “.brave is more than a domain — it’s a user-owned identity layer, native to the Brave ecosystem.”
By integrating onchain domains into its browser, Brave is taking a clear step toward redefining what digital identity means in the Web3 era — not just in theory, but in practical, user-facing applications.
Final Thoughts
With .brave, Brave is solidifying its position at the intersection of decentralized identity, privacy-first technology, and Web3 accessibility. As mainstream adoption of blockchain tools grows, this initiative could serve as a powerful model for how browsers can evolve beyond passive gateways and into active enablers of the decentralized web.
Source
Source: https://coindoo.com/brave-launches-onchain-domains-in-new-partnership/