Digitalage names Robert T. Braun as new CEO

Temequa, California, September 3, 2026, Digitalage, a subsidiary of Hop-on, Inc., has appointed Robert T. Braun as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective September 1, 2026. Braun takes over from Digitalage Founder Peter Michaels, who will continue as the company’s founder and chairman, and as chairman and CEO of Hop-on, Inc.

Braun brings over two decades of experience in global intellectual property licensing to Digitalage. During his tenure at Nokia, he managed patent-licensing strategies across North and South America and parts of Asia, covering a wide range of technologies, including cellular, wireless, video, multimedia, software, and consumer electronics. His background also includes roles at Microsoft and Intellectual Ventures, as well as a 17-year stint at Discovision Associates, where he served as Vice President of Licensing and Managing Attorney.

"Digitalage has spent years laying the technological groundwork," said Michaels. "Now, the focus shifts to commercializing the technology and building robust licensing relationships. Rob's extensive experience in protecting and monetizing intellectual property makes him an ideal leader for this phase."

Braun emphasized the importance of keeping content provenance, permissions, and commercial terms connected. "Content moves faster than ever, and the terms attached to it can easily get lost. Digitalage is addressing this gap by building infrastructure that connects these elements throughout the media lifecycle," he stated.

In his new role, Braun will prioritize developing enterprise licensing programs, pursuing structured deployments with media companies, rights holders, technology firms, and distribution partners. He will also guide international business development and establish internal reporting and partner-governance systems to support expansion. Michaels will continue to focus on long-term vision, product direction, innovation, and strategic relationships.

"Peter has built the technology foundation," said Braun. "My role will be to ensure disciplined execution and translate that foundation into meaningful enterprise relationships."

Digitalage currently operates in a controlled, invite-only environment as it refines its platform and prepares for broader commercial adoption. The company is developing media infrastructure to connect creator identity, content provenance, ownership, permissions, live and on-demand distribution, searchable archives, governance, and monetization within a unified workflow.

Braun's appointment marks a deliberate transition from building the technology to commercializing it. He is a registered patent attorney and holds a Juris Doctor from Syracuse University College of Law and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science from Clarkson University. His unique blend of legal and technical expertise positions him well to oversee Digitalage's growth and commercialization.

"Content has never moved more freely, and the terms attached to it have never been easier to lose," said Braun. "Digitalage is building the infrastructure to keep these elements connected, ensuring that creators are fairly compensated and rights are respected."