Google Domains to Wind Down, Squarespace to Acquire Assets

Google Domains to Wind Down as Squarespace Acquires Assets

Google Domains, the domain registrar service that debuted in 2014, is set to wind down after a transition period. Website builder and hosting giant Squarespace has inked a deal to acquire the assets associated with Google Domains.

The acquisition encompasses around 10 million domains hosted on Google Domains across millions of customers. Google’s decision to sell the business aligns with their intent to “sharpen our focus.”

Squarespace CEO, Anthony Casalena, expressed that acquiring Google Domains aligns with their mission to “empower people to create a beautiful online presence.” He also emphasized Squarespace’s commitment to “continue to invest in and grow” the Google Domains venture.

The deal is slated to close in the second half of 2023. Until then, Google Domains will maintain its regular operations. Following the sale, Squarespace will initiate the migration of Google Domains customers to its platform.

Get to Know Google Domains

Launched in 2014, Google Domains aimed to provide users with a platform to register and manage their domain names. The service boasted an array of features, such as DNS management, email hosting, and SSL certificates. Google Domains became a go-to choice for users seeking a straightforward and cost-effective domain management solution.

Meet Squarespace

Squarespace, founded in 1998, is a website builder and hosting company catering to small businesses and individuals seeking professional-looking websites. It offers a range of features, including drag-and-drop website creation, e-commerce capabilities, and an extensive selection of templates and themes.

Google Domains Sale: A Strategic Move

Google’s decision to sell its domain business indicates a shift in focus towards its core ventures, such as artificial intelligence and cloud computing. This move will likely emphasize these areas as Google’s top priorities in the coming years. By acquiring Google Domains, Squarespace can broaden its services and compete more effectively with other domain registrars like GoDaddy and Namecheap.

“Supporting a smooth transition for customers over the coming months, with the help of the Google Domains team, is our top priority. Squarespace can provide an integrated experience of purchasing and managing domains along with offering other tools that these customers may need to build their online presence.”

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MATT MADRIGAL, VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER, MERCHANT SHOPPING OF GOOGLE

There is no immediate impact on your Google Domains account and there is nothing you need to do at this time. Once regulatory approvals are obtained and the transaction closes, you will become a customer of Squarespace, and your domain will be owned and, after a transition period, managed by Squarespace.

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