Did Trimble Buy SketchUp?
SketchUp, the popular 3D modeling software, has undergone several ownership changes over the years. One of the most significant acquisitions in SketchUp’s history was when Trimble, a leading technology company, bought it in 2012.
The History of SketchUp
Originally developed by @Last Software, SketchUp was first released in August 2000 as a general-purpose 3D content creation tool. Its intuitive interface and user-friendly features quickly made it a favorite among architects, designers, and hobbyists.
Google recognized the potential of SketchUp and acquired it in 2006. Under Google’s stewardship, SketchUp continued to grow in popularity and functionality. The software became widely accessible through its free version, SketchUp Make, as well as its professional version, SketchUp Pro.
The Acquisition by Trimble
In April 2012, Google announced that it had sold SketchUp to Trimble for an undisclosed amount. This move surprised many in the industry but ultimately proved beneficial for both companies involved.
Trimble’s expertise lies in developing advanced positioning solutions for industries such as construction, agriculture, and transportation. With SketchUp’s powerful modeling capabilities added to their portfolio, Trimble could offer customers a complete end-to-end solution for their design and construction needs.
The Impact on SketchUp
The acquisition by Trimble brought several changes to how SketchUp operated. One significant change was the introduction of a new subscription-based pricing model alongside perpetual licensing options.
This shift allowed Trimble to provide ongoing updates and improvements to the software while ensuring a steady revenue stream for continued development. The subscription model also gave users access to additional features and cloud-based collaboration tools.
Integration with Trimble’s Solutions
Trimble wasted no time in leveraging SketchUp’s capabilities to enhance their existing solutions. They integrated SketchUp with other Trimble technologies, such as the Trimble Connect platform, which enables seamless collaboration among teams working on complex projects.
The integration also extended to Trimble’s broader portfolio of software and hardware solutions. For example, SketchUp became an integral part of Trimble’s BuildingPoint offering, allowing users to create 3D models that accurately represent real-world structures.
The Future of SketchUp
Since the acquisition, SketchUp has continued to evolve and thrive. With Trimble’s support and resources, the software has seen significant updates and improvements in areas such as performance, functionality, and interoperability.
The SketchUp team remains committed to providing a user-friendly experience while catering to the ever-changing needs of professionals in various industries. As technology advances, it is likely that SketchUp will continue to integrate with new tools and platforms for even greater versatility.
In Conclusion
The acquisition of SketchUp by Trimble marked a new chapter in the software’s history. With access to Trimble’s vast resources and expertise, SketchUp has grown into a comprehensive 3D modeling solution that meets the demands of professionals across various industries. Whether you are an architect designing a new building or a hobbyist bringing your creative ideas to life, SketchUp remains a powerful tool for all your design needs.