Squarespace made a surprising announcement that it is acquiring all the assets of Google Domains, including approximately 10 million domains. The transaction is expected to be completed by the third quarter of 2023, marking a significant transition for Google Domains.
In a recent agreement, Google and Squarespace have decided to transfer the assets of Google Domains, initiating a winding-down period for Google Domains. This transition period will allow for a seamless transfer of services.
Anthony Casalena, the CEO and founder of Squarespace, expressed his excitement about being chosen to serve the customers of Google Domains. He emphasized the critical role domains play in web infrastructure and the online presence of businesses. Squarespace is committed to ensuring a seamless transition for these new customers, leveraging their expertise as a domain products provider.
The impact of this acquisition on Google Workspace customers is notable. Squarespace, a long-time reseller of Google Workspace, will become the exclusive domains provider for customers purchasing a domain along with their Workspace subscription directly from Google for a minimum of three years. Squarespace will also provide billing and support services to Google Workspace customers who signed up through Google Domains. Customers will retain the flexibility to make changes to their domain accounts as needed.
Squarespace’s domain registration business will expand significantly with this acquisition, adding approximately ten million customers. Similar to other domain name registrars, Squarespace offers a domain management tool that allows users to edit the DNS settings. The cost of domains at Squarespace ranges from $20 to $70. As part of the sale agreement, Squarespace will honor the current pricing of Google Domains for one year.
The news of Squarespace’s acquisition of Google Domains has garnered mixed reactions. Google Domains had gained popularity within the search marketing community and beyond due to its user-friendly interface and ease of use. Some expressed concern about the potential for upselling add-ons, which was not a common practice with Google Domains. Satisfied Google Domains customers conveyed their sadness about the transition.
For Squarespace, this acquisition represents a natural path to growth. Many companies in the industry offer domain registration services alongside hosting, marketing, and other related services. By expanding its domain registration business, Squarespace aims to provide a comprehensive suite of services to individuals and businesses looking to establish a strong online presence.
With the acquisition of Google Domains, Squarespace is poised to strengthen its position in the market and further enhance its offerings to customers in the domain registration space.
