Who Owns SketchUp?
SketchUp is a popular 3D modeling software that enables users to create, edit, and share 3D models of various objects and buildings. It is widely used by architects, engineers, designers, and hobbyists for its intuitive interface and powerful features.
But have you ever wondered who actually owns SketchUp? Let’s dive into the ownership details of this remarkable software.
The Early Days
In the beginning, SketchUp was developed by a start-up company called @Last Software. It was founded in 1999 by Brad Schell and Joe Esch as a platform for creating 3D content for use in architectural design. The company released its first version of SketchUp in August 2000, which quickly gained popularity among professionals in the industry.
Fun Fact: The name “SketchUp” was derived from the idea that the software allows users to quickly sketch out their ideas in a virtual space.
Google’s Acquisition
In March 2006, Google acquired @Last Software to enhance its online mapping services. At that time, Google Earth was gaining traction, and SketchUp seemed like a perfect fit to improve its capabilities. With Google’s resources and global presence, SketchUp soon became even more widely recognized.
Did You Know? As part of the acquisition deal, @Last Software founders Brad Schell and Joe Esch joined Google as part of the Google SketchUp team.
The Trimble Years
In June 2012, Google decided to sell SketchUp due to strategic realignments within the company. The buyer was Trimble Navigation Limited, an American hardware and software company specializing in positioning technologies. This move allowed Google to focus on its core products while SketchUp found a new home under Trimble’s ownership.
Under Trimble, SketchUp continued to flourish, and new features were introduced to cater to various industries. The software became more versatile, with applications in architecture, interior design, construction, woodworking, and even film production.
Current Ownership
As of now, SketchUp is still owned by Trimble Navigation Limited. Despite changing hands over the years, the software has maintained its reputation as a reliable and user-friendly tool for 3D modeling.
In Conclusion, SketchUp was initially developed by @Last Software before being acquired by Google in 2006. Later, in 2012, it was sold to Trimble Navigation Limited. This change in ownership has only strengthened the software’s position in the market and allowed for continuous innovation and improvement.
If you are interested in using SketchUp for your projects or simply want to explore its capabilities further, it’s good to know who is behind this impressive software!