14 DAY TRIAL // Google SketchUp is an application provided by Google that allows you to create 3D models without the need of a complex application or advanced knowledge of the process. The company acquired SketchUp last year in March, making it available as a free application a few weeks later. Currently, the program is available for Windows and Mac platforms but the search giant wants to make it available for multiple operating systems. The last update for the program was released yesterday when the company introduced the final version of Google SketchUp 6.
In a press release posted on the official website, Google mentioned the main changes included in the final version saying that the application now includes an improved API that enables you to use third party tools as part of the program's features. The search giant mentioned the following improvements:
- Photo Match - Users can now quickly and easily trace a photo to create a 3D model of the photographed object or match an existing model with a background photo for near-instant modeling. - Styles - New collections of display settings including Watermarks (2D images behind or in front of models) and Sketchy Effects (rendered as though drawn by hand) enable users to create 3D models to fit their professional or personal needs. - 3D Text - Users can now convert text to 2D outlines, filled surfaces, or extruded 3D objects. - LayOut Beta (Pro version only) - An innovative presentation/publishing application enables users to create professional design presentations and high-resolution documents with little additional work. By embedding SketchUp models in a LayOut document, professionals can create compelling presentations that enable models to remain interactive and modifiable.
Yesterday, the company also introduced the final version of Google Earth 4, an application that allows you to view Earth maps captured directly from the satellite. Google made SketchUp compatible with this latest version of Google Earth, allowing you to design 3D models of any building, city or country in the entire world and include it into Google Earth's features. Google SketchUp was also tested by Softpedia and it is available as a free download HERE, as well as Google Earth that is available HERE.