Google Earth 4 Has A New Dimension

Google Earth 4 public beta is available as an improved version after its high-resolution satellite and aerial imagery index has been quadrupled. But the updated imagery is not the sole new feature of Google Earth 4. It is joined by SketchUp 5, also a new version, by support for geocoding via JavaScript and Google Maps for Enterprise.

Running on PCs, Macs and Linux based machines, Google Earth 4 was created to carry on the success of its predecessors that numbered more than 100 million individual downloads. And for this, the mapping and data tracking application brings to the table a new streamlined user interface, textured buildings in 3D view, a larger data base and KML file support.

The SketchUp 3D application has also been upgraded and is better integrated with Google Earth. In SketchUp 3D, models of buildings can be created with a Google Earth plot of land as baseline. Images can be mapped over the sketched structure as to offer texture and the view can be corrected to represent a realistic perspective.

For a subscription starting at $10.000 per year, businesses can use Google Maps for Enterprise. The package includes technical support, flexible overlay of custom data with the JavaScript-based API, seamless integration of maps in the web browser and professional mapping services.