April 26, 2012 - Trimble Navigation agreed with Google to purchase the SketchUp 3D platform.
Trimble Navigation Ltd has agreed to buy SketchUp 3D modeling platform from Google Inc for an undisclosed price, the companies said.
As part of the SketchUp platform, Trimble will partner Google in developing SketchUp's 3D Warehouse — an online repository where users can find, share, store and collaborate on 3D models, the companies said in a joint statement.
Trimble, which makes surveying, mapping, and marine navigation equipment, said SketchUp will enhance the integration of its field presence with the wider enterprise.
SketchUp is a free 3D modeling platform that helps in designing 3D models within Google Earth — a virtual map of most of the planet's surface.
The platform enables users to create collections of models, including 3D buildings, and share them with fellow modelers around the world.
The deal is expected to close in the second quarter of 2012.