Trimble Navigation buys Google's SketchUp 3D platform
updated 01:00 pm EDT, Thu April 26, 2012
Google Earth tech bought by Trimble Navigation
Trimble Navigation on Thursday bought Google’s SketchUp 3D modelling platform. Trimble specializes in navigation equipment for marine, mapping, and surveying industries and the new acquisition will let it bring a new level of field presence and views to these and more. It will work with Google on developing SketchUp's 3D Warehouse, an online place for users to find, share, and cooperate on creating 3D models.
The 3D modeling platform is so far used to design 3D models in Google Earth. Collections of models such as 3D buildings can be created and shared using the platform. Google bought SketchUp when it was a start-up in 2006 and helped it grow to host millions of active users.
Financial details of the deal weren’t revealed, though the deal is expected to close later this spring. [via Reuters]
