Trimble has announced today the agreement to acquire SketchUp from Google. This is very interesting news for the advancement of 3D modeling, with potential to tie more directly to data capture tools through the many handheld and scanning technologies that the company provides. Trimble will partner with Google on running and developing SketchUp’s 3D Warehouse.
Millions of users design, model and visualize projects with these tools. The addition of this tool within the group of Trimble’s other design and construction tools (Accubid, HHK, Meridian, Plancal, QuickPen, Tekla, Trimble Business Center and the Trimble Connected Community) enable an integrated workflow.
Expect to see SketchUp as more of a platform, as it creates a hub for a number of technologies. It was never a great fit for Google, other than a means to build out the 3D part of Google Earth, which didn’t truly take off. You can also expect this tool to become more professional and tied into business workflows. Trimble targets cadastral, heavy civil, and building and construction industries as well as enabling third-party developers and distribution partners to efficiently develop new applications.
Read more about this breaking news here.
