Originally posted by Tee
I think .us might be bigger than many people who view it as just a redundant cc extension think it will be.
The reasons I do is
1). There is a good and wealthy registry behind it in neustar/neulevel. They have actually communicated with members at the icann forum, listening to concerns and acting on them especially in .biz matters, but also with a few .us issues. This is unheard of in this business. They are also advertising the extension.
2). Whether we like it or not, the us and us products are very in demand. The economic and cultural impact of the us on the world could hardly ever be overestimated. The US by far has the richest economy in the world. .US represents this. And the restrictions in a way feeds the flame, making it look exclusive. In reality, the nexus requirements can really easily be met and you are given a great chance at meeting them even if you are challenged.
3). The internet and .com has roots as a us phenomenon. Now that country comes out with a cc specific for it? It is little wonder it is being registered at a blisteringly blindingly fast rate. Possibly faster than all other tlds combined for the same period?
The whole us patriotism thing probably doesn't hurt either.
The make or break point for any tld is use. It has to be advertised. It seems the registry itself is ready to do it ven if business is not quite ready.
I think all in all, the prospects look good.
Personally though, i like .info. Its a shame neustar doesn't have that one.