.dev vs .app
Both Google-managed, both HTTPS-required sibling TLDs. The question is: face the developer, or face the user?
.dev New gTLD Diversification
Managed by Google Registry. HSTS-required, declaring a security stance at the domain level.
Prevalence 58
Vibe Tags
Developer HTTPS Required Google Managed
Specimen Count 9
Caution
HTTPS mandatory (HSTS preloaded).
Observer's Note
Born encrypted. The progeny of security fundamentalism.
.app New gTLD Diversification
Managed by Google Registry. Ideal for mobile/web app landing pages.
Prevalence 53
Vibe Tags
App HTTPS Required Modern
Specimen Count 10
Caution
HTTPS mandatory.
Observer's Note
A sibling species to .dev. Adapted to a more consumer-facing niche.
Observation Axes
| .dev | .app | |
|---|---|---|
| Operator | Google Registry. HSTS preloaded (HTTPS required). | Google Registry. HSTS preloaded (HTTPS required). |
| Target Audience | Developers. Tools, SDKs, APIs, documentation. | End users. Mobile and desktop applications. |
| Notable Examples | web.dev, flutter.dev, github.dev, thirdweb.dev | cash.app, bsky.app, craft.app, poe.app |
| Perception | Technical, specialized. Trust that "developers built this." | Polished, modern. Impression of "a finished product." |
| Naming Pattern | tool.dev is common. Short names still available. | brand.app is dominant. Mirrors app store naming. |
Verdict
Choose .dev for developer tools, libraries, and documentation. Choose .app for end-user applications.
Snapshot: 2026-03