"Google has agreed to sell its 3D modeling platform SketchUp to Trimble Navigation for an undisclosed sum, the companies announced on Thursday.
SketchUp is a popular 3D modeling platform used for architectural purposes, as well as films and games. The program, which is known for its ease-of-use, allows models to be created within the context of Google Earth. Google purchased it back in 2006, and offers it for free version as well as via a more-advanced, paid version, called Sketch Up Pro.
Sunnyvale, Calif.-based Trimble, which makes surveying, mapping, and marine navigation equipment, said it hopes the acquisition will expand its reach in industries like architecture and construction where its tools are already widely in use. The transaction is expected to close during the second quarter.
"SketchUp, together with these existing capabilities, will provide a stand-alone and enterprise solution that will enable an integrated and seamless workflow to reduce rework and improve productivity for the customer," Bryn Fosburgh, Trimble vice president, said in a statement. "Users will be able to collect data, design, model, and collaborate on one platform."
John Bacus, product manager at SketchUp, said the platform will be able to grow and develop new features as part of Trimble.
"We'll be better able to focus on our core communities: modelers who have been with us from the beginning, as well as future SketchUppers who have yet to discover our products," Bacus wrote in a blog post Thursday. "Designers, builders and makers of things have always been the heart and soul of SketchUp."
As part of the deal, Trimble will partner with Google on running and further developing the SketchUp 3D warehouse, an online repository where users can find and collaborate on 3D models. Trimble will also continue offering a few version of SketchUp."

So, will designing change for us?