Google Domains exits beta after seven years

Google has finally launched its domain registration service after it spent seven years in beta.

The Google Domains service is now available across 26 countries, with the company suggesting it already has "millions of active registrations".

Users may have forgotten about Google Domains, which was first revealed in 2015, and might even have thought it was one of the many products killed by Google.

Google is marking the service finally launching with a 20% discount for new and returning users, available until 15 April. This is for single domain registration or transfer of a domain from another registrar with the code "DOMAINS20".

Domains will tie in with other Google services within its Workplace suite of products. Users can use their domain in their email address, for example, and it can be used to build a website or online store with Google Sites or for use as a business profile on Maps and in Search.

With Google Domains, users will get tools to build an online presence with more than 300 domain endings available, according to Google. Functions that handle the coding to build a professional-looking website with partners including Wix, Shopify, Squarespace, Weebly and Bluehost.

There are simple integrations for Google Ads and Search Console, so users can reach customers across the web, and also track where your visitors are coming from.

Google Domains will also come with access to 'high performance' DNS, which Google says is the same infrastructure it uses itself, and there are also a number of privacy and security features incorporated as standard. This includes two-step verification and one-click DNSSEC, which is an add-on for DNS systems that add an additional layer of security. Google is offering this at no additional cost.