Technology

ID.me Announces $275 Million Financing from Ares Management

Published

1 year ago

January 30, 2025

MCLEAN, Va., Jan. 30, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — ID.me, the market leading digital identity wallet, today announced it has closed a $275 million credit facility provided by Ares Management funds (“Ares”). Ares also plans to make a substantial equity investment in ID.me. Proceeds will fuel ID.me’s continued acceleration, as ID.me is revolutionizing the way Americans securely prove their identity online, expanding digital access while protecting privacy and preventing fraud.

This financing comes amid significant business momentum, as ID.me has signed up over 139 million users into its digital wallet, with over 65 million of these users verified to the federal standards of IAL2 consumer authentication. ID.me’s revenue has grown over 450% from 2020 through 2024, as superior results for customers and members are driving rapid growth and adoption.

ID.me is the only digital wallet that meets the federal government standards for secure login and multi-factor authentication while offering online, video chat, and in-person options for identity verification at National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Identity Assurance Level 2. True to ID.me’s purpose of enabling consumer trust across the digital economy, members can use ID.me’s digital wallet to safely login and prove their identity in seconds at any government, healthcare, commercial or non-profit organization in the ID.me network.

“This credit facility provided by Ares, combined with its anticipated equity investment, provides substantial capital to accelerate our roadmap and growth strategy, scaling ID.me to the next phase of growth and sustainable profitability,” said Blake Hall, Founder and CEO of ID.me. “Coming soon after our recent secondary tender, we are pleased that esteemed institutional investors are recognizing our market-leading outcomes expanding digital access, protecting privacy, fighting fraud, and ensuring frictionless user experience.”

Ares Management, a leading global alternative investment manager with more than $464 billion in assets under management as of September 30, 2024, brings decades of experience investing significant capital in high-quality software and technology opportunities.

“ID.me is a category and thought leader in the digital identity space, enabling government agency and commercial enterprise customers to navigate the demand for secure and inclusive digital access to their services while respecting end-user data privacy,” said John Clark, Principal at Ares Management. “As the world continues to be transformed by AI and vectors of fraud proliferate, we believe that ID.me’s digital identity wallets will become increasingly important in facilitating the consistent and fraud-resistant connections between these large organizations and their users. Ares is excited to work with Blake and the rest of the ID.me team, and we look forward to supporting ID.me’s next phase of growth.”

About ID.me
ID.me is the next-generation digital identity wallet that simplifies how individuals securely prove their identity online. Consumers can verify their identity with ID.me once and seamlessly login across websites without having to create a new login and verify their identity again. Over 139 million users experience streamlined login and identity verification with ID.me at 19 federal agencies, 44 state government agencies, and 66 healthcare organizations. More than 600 consumer brands use ID.me to verify communities and user segments to honor service and build more authentic relationships. ID.me’s technology meets the federal standards for consumer authentication set by the Commerce Department and is approved as a NIST 800-63-3 IAL2 / AAL2 credential service provider by the Kantara Initiative. ID.me is committed to “No Identity Left Behind” to enable all people to have a secure digital identity. To learn more, visit https://network.id.me/.

About Ares Management Corporation
Ares Management Corporation (NYSE: ARES) is a leading global alternative investment manager offering clients complementary primary and secondary investment solutions across the credit, real estate, private equity and infrastructure asset classes. We seek to provide flexible capital to support businesses and create value for our stakeholders and within our communities. By collaborating across our investment groups, we aim to generate consistent and attractive investment returns throughout market cycles. As of September 30, 2024, Ares Management Corporation’s global platform had approximately $464 billion of assets under management, with more than 3,100 employees operating across North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. For more information, please visit www.aresmgmt.com.

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SOURCE ID.me, Inc.

Technology

Lahaina art gallery turns tragedy into technology with FIRST LOOK

Published

52 minutes ago

April 22, 2026

Harte International Galleries to launch first of its kind “gallery in your pocket”.

LAHAINA, Hawaii, April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — Following the devastating Maui wildfire of August 8, 2023, which destroyed its Lahaina gallery, Harte International Galleries announces the launch of FIRST LOOK, an innovative digital application designed to bring investment grade art directly to collectors. This new “gallery in your pocket” app ensures continued access to masterworks and new releases, embodying the gallery’s resilience and commitment to its clientele.

Maui art gallery turns tragedy into innovation with a fine art APP that’s a gallery in your pocket, called FIRST LOOK.

To explore the FIRST LOOK app and discover its unique offerings, please visit: www.hartegalleries.com

Reimagining Art Access

“FIRST LOOK from Harte International Galleries is not just an app; it’s a vibrant new chapter for art enthusiasts, offering an engaging and informative way to discover masterpieces by iconic artists such as Picasso, Chagall, Miro, Salvador Dali and even Sir Anthony Hopkins at discounted prices, thanks to the elimination of traditional gallery overheads, making world-class art more accessible and enjoyable than ever before,” said Glenn Harte.

With physical rebuilding efforts in Lahaina currently stalled, Glenn and Devon Harte, owners of Harte International Galleries, developed FIRST LOOK as a direct response to the loss of their physical space. This digital platform allows the gallery to rebuild its inventory and continue serving loyal collectors without the overhead of a traditional brick-and-mortar location. The app provides a fun, informative, and accessible way to engage with fine art.

Direct Access to Masterworks

FIRST LOOK offers collectors unparalleled, immediate access to new acquisitions and exclusive releases. Members receive instant notifications on their mobile phones, complete with images, detailed descriptions, and pricing for each piece. This direct communication channel allows members to inquire about art with a single tap, connecting them directly with the gallery owners.

The app features a curated selection of renowned artists and masterworks, including:

Masterworks: Picasso, Chagall, Miro, Matisse, Rembrandt, Durer, Salvador Dali.New Releases: Sir Anthony Hopkins and famed graffiti artist Rascal.

By leveraging FIRST LOOK, Harte International Galleries continues its legacy of providing access to exceptional art, adapting to new realities while maintaining the highest standards of quality and authenticity. Further information about the app and its offerings is available at: www.hartegalleries.com

Harte International Galleries, formerly of Lahaina, Maui has rebuilt with a digital gallery for serious collectors, called FIRST LOOK.

Known for offering museum grade art from Picasso, Chagall, Miro, Matisse, Dali, Rembrandt, Durer, Sir Anthony Hopkins and Rascal – Harte International Galleries uses innovation to create a digital gallery.

go to: www.hartegalleries.com

Media Contact:
Glenn Harte
glennharte@hartegalleries.com

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SOURCE Harte International Galleries

Technology

As homes get smarter, new global research names Aiper as the world’s No.1 smart robotic pool cleaner brand

Published

52 minutes ago

April 22, 2026

New research reveals Aiper holds the position of the world’s No.1 brand of smart robotic pool cleaners based on 2026 manufacturer sales volume worldwide

SYDNEY, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — As technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) become embedded in everyday life1, homeowners are embracing innovation more than ever. This trend is reflected in new global research which names Aiper the world’s No.1 brand of smart robotic pool cleaners*. From robot vacuums indoors to smart security, lighting and energy systems, homeowners are now seeking systems that help optimise energy use, align with cost-saving goals and reduce environmental impact, without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

According to independent research by Euromonitor International, completed in December 2025, Aiper ranked No.1 globally based on manufacturer sales volume worldwide. The findings come as smart home adoption accelerates globally, valued at more than $147 billion USD in 2025 and projected to grow rapidly over the next decade2, as households prioritise automation that improves efficiency and supports sustainability goals.

Pool care is following the same trajectory. With more than 3.1 million Australians living in homes with a swimming pool or spa3, demand is growing for intelligent, low-effort systems that can operate autonomously, efficiently and reliably, while helping households manage energy use and ongoing maintenance costs.

Aiper’s innovation-led approach was formally recognised at the 2026 Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas, where Euromonitor International presented Aiper with an official certificate acknowledging its global sales leadership. The recognition highlights not only the brand’s growth, but the accelerating mainstream adoption of intelligent robotics in outdoor living.

Aiper’s next innovation, the Scuba V3, is the world’s first cognitive AI-powered robotic pool cleaner. Lightweight and easy to use, it cleans 10x faster with AI vision that identifies 20+ debris types in 3 seconds. Using Cognitive AI Navium™ mode, it automatically adapts cleaning paths, suction, and frequency to each pool, delivering a true set-it-and-forget-it experience for crystal-clear water. Demonstrating how robotics and AI can support more sustainable, low-effort outdoor living while helping households better manage energy and water use.This model will be available in the Australia market during Spring season.

This growing momentum is also being recognised by Aiper’s key retail partner in Australia, Clark Rubber. “At Clark Rubber, we’re seeing strong growth in demand for smarter, more efficient pool care solutions as Australian households look to reduce maintenance time, energy use and overall costs. Aiper’s global recognition reflects the increasing role that innovation and intelligent technology are playing in outdoor living. As a key retail partner, we’re excited to bring these advanced solutions to Australian consumers and support the shift toward more sustainable, low-effort pool ownership.” said Anthony Grice, CEO Clark Rubber.

For Australian households, long swimming seasons, outdoor lifestyles, and rising energy costs make smart, efficient systems a practical necessity. Aiper’s global recognition marks a turning point for smart outdoor living, where advanced robotics and AI are increasingly powerful, accessible, and sustainable, shaping the way modern homes evolve. For more information, visit https://aiper.com/au/home

Research and Citations

https://hai.stanford.edu/ai-index/2025-ai-index-report https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/smart-home-market-101900 https://www.roymorgan.com/findings/9311-australian-swimming-pool-ownership-march-2023

About Aiper

Aiper is the global pioneer of cordless robotic pool cleaning technology and a leader in smart yard product solutions. Aiper empowers homeowners to transform their backyards into a personal vacation retreat with the help of innovative, smarter, and greener product solutions. Aiper has been recognised as a CES Innovation Awards honouree in 2023, 2024, and 2025, underscoring its commitment to pioneering smart yard solutions.

*Aiper is the No.1 brand of smart robotic pool cleaner in the world in terms of sales volume.

Source: Euromonitor International Co., Ltd., in terms of 2025 manufacturer sales volume (units) in the world. Smart robotic pool cleaner is
defined as: intelligent service robots integrating mechanical, electronic, software algorithm and sensor technologies. They autonomously or
with minimal human intervention perform pool cleaning and maintenance tasks, typically featuring smart navigation, path planning, and
multiple cleaning modes. Research completed in 2026/3.

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SOURCE Aiper

Technology

Slip And Fall Vs Premises Liability Explained By HelloNation Featuring Personal Injury Attorney Joe Stanley

Published

52 minutes ago

April 22, 2026

The article clarifies how property owner responsibility and legal negligence affect injury claims under New York law.

WATERTOWN, N.Y., April 21, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — What is the difference between slip and fall incidents and premises liability when someone is injured on another person’s property? The answer is addressed in a HelloNation article featuring insights from Joe Stanley of Stanley Law Offices LLP in Watertown, New York.

The HelloNation article explains that, while slip-and-fall and premises liability are often used interchangeably, they are not the same under New York law. A slip and fall refers to the actual event in which a person slips, trips, or falls due to a condition on a property. Premises liability, however, is the legal framework used to determine whether a property owner is responsible for an injury. This distinction is important because not every slip-and-fall incident results in a valid injury claim.

According to the article, property owner responsibility in Watertown NY, depends on whether the owner knew or should have known about a hazardous condition. New York law requires property owners to maintain safe premises and to warn visitors about known dangers. This duty applies broadly to commercial properties, rental units, and private homes that welcome guests. The article notes that hazards such as wet floors, icy walkways, or poor lighting may result in premises liability if they are not addressed in a reasonable time.

The article further emphasizes that legal negligence is the key factor in determining liability. Courts evaluating injury claims consider whether a property owner took reasonable steps to inspect and maintain the property. This includes reviewing maintenance practices, prior complaints, and the foreseeability of the risk. If a hazard appeared suddenly and the property owner had no reasonable opportunity to correct it, premises liability may not apply, even if a slip and fall occurred.

The HelloNation article also highlights how property owner responsibility extends to regular inspections, timely repairs, and proper warning signs. In Watertown NY, failing to clear snow or ice, ignoring spills, or neglecting adequate lighting can contribute to legal negligence. At the same time, the article explains that property owners who actively maintain their premises and provide clear warnings are less likely to face liability under New York law.

For individuals pursuing injury claims, understanding the distinction between slip-and-fall incidents and premises liability is essential. The article advises that documenting the scene, taking photographs, and seeking prompt medical attention can help support a claim. These steps are important in establishing whether legal negligence played a role and whether the property owner’s responsibility can be demonstrated.

The article also explains that not all accidents meet the legal threshold for premises liability. A slip and fall caused by an unexpected personal item or hazard that could not have been anticipated may not result in a valid claim. This reinforces the importance of evaluating each case based on the facts and the standards set by New York law.

By clarifying these distinctions, the HelloNation article provides readers in Watertown NY with practical guidance on how slip and fall incidents are evaluated within the broader concept of premises liability. Understanding how legal negligence and property owner responsibility are applied can help individuals better navigate injury claims and make informed decisions after an accident.

Slip and Fall vs. Premises Liability in Watertown, NY features insights from Joe Stanley, an attorney in Watertown, New York, on HelloNation.

About HelloNation
HelloNation is a premier media platform that connects readers with trusted professionals and businesses across various industries. Through its innovative “edvertising” approach that blends educational content with storytelling, HelloNation delivers expert-driven, good-news articles that inform, inspire, and empower. Covering topics from home improvement and health to business strategy and lifestyle, HelloNation highlights leaders making a meaningful impact in their communities.

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SOURCE HelloNation