SketchUp is a popular 3D modeling software that has gained a lot of attention and praise over the years. But have you ever wondered about its history? In this article, we will delve into the origins and evolution of SketchUp, highlighting its key milestones along the way.
The Birth of SketchUp
SketchUp was originally developed by @Last Software, a company founded in 1999 by Brad Schell and Joe Esch. The idea behind SketchUp was to create an intuitive and easy-to-use 3D modeling tool that would appeal to both professionals and beginners alike.
Version 1.0 – A Humble Beginning
In August 2000, @Last Software released the first version of SketchUp. It was initially available only for Windows but gained popularity quickly due to its user-friendly interface and powerful features. With Version 1.0, users could create basic 3D models using simple tools like lines, shapes, and push-pull.
- Introduced in August 2000
- Available for Windows initially
- Simple tools for creating basic 3D models
Version 4 – Google’s Acquisition
In March 2006, Google acquired @Last Software, signaling a major turning point in SketchUp’s history. Under Google’s ownership, SketchUp received significant updates and improvements.
New Features:
- Google Earth Integration: Version 4 introduced seamless integration with Google Earth, allowing users to place their models on real-world locations.
- Dynamic Components: This feature enabled users to create intelligent objects that could be easily manipulated.
- LayOut: LayOut was introduced as an additional application bundled with SketchUp Pro. It allowed users to create professional 2D presentations and documentation.
Version 7 – The Ruby API
With Version 7, released in November 2008, SketchUp introduced the Ruby API. This powerful programming interface opened up endless possibilities for customization and extension of SketchUp’s functionality.
Benefits of the Ruby API:
- Custom Tools: Developers could now create custom tools and commands to enhance their modeling workflows.
- Plugins: The Ruby API led to the development of a vast library of plugins, offering users additional functionality beyond what was included in the core software.
- Automation: With the Ruby API, repetitive tasks could be automated, saving users valuable time and effort.
The present – SketchUp Pro and SketchUp Free
In 2012, Google sold SketchUp to Trimble Navigation Limited. Since then, Trimble has continued to develop and improve the software.
The Two Flavors of SketchUp Today:
- SketchUp Pro: This is the full-featured version of SketchUp Targeted at professionals in architecture, engineering, construction, and other industries. It includes advanced features like LayOut and Style Builder.
- SketchUp Free: As the name suggests, this is a free web-based version of SketchUp that offers limited features but still provides a great introduction to 3D modeling for beginners.
In Conclusion
From its humble beginnings as a Windows-only software to its evolution under Google’s ownership and its current offerings under Trimble’s guidance, SketchUp has come a long way. Its user-friendly interface, powerful features, and continuous development have made it one of the most popular choices for 3D modeling.
Whether you are a professional architect or a hobbyist looking to explore the world of 3D modeling, SketchUp offers a versatile and accessible toolset to bring your ideas to life.