Sketchup 2019 released alongside rental licensing

Trimble has announced the latest version of Sketchup as well as a shift to a rental-based licensing strategy.

In recent year’s Sketchup split into two versions. The original desktop-based software and the newer but less featured browser-based version. For the desktop version, the main new feature is the addition of dashed lines for layers and a UX improvements to the Tape Measure tool. In Layout, it is also now possible to see which files are already open to prevent opening multiple versions and there are improvements to DWG support in both Layout and Sketchup Pro. 

Rental licenses also grant unlimited storage space and access to Trimble Connect, a 3D model sharing and document management tool designed for construction. 

Sketchup for Web sees updates too, some of which have been released recently. A live preview allows users to customise a snapshot to be used to preview the asset. This is included in the free plan as well. Subscribers also get style editing.

SketchUp Viewer increases the number of compatible VR devices. The list now includes Oculus, Windows Mixed Reality, VIVE, and Hololens.

Finally, Sketchup is now available under an annual rental licensing scheme. Prices for personal use are $119/year for the web-based version and $299/year for the desktop and web version. There’s also a Studio version with access to Sefaira performance-based design tools for $1199/year. 

Rental is not enforced, perpetual licenses are still available for $695 plus $120 to upgrade annually.  A free version is also still available.

Find out more about the announcement on Sketchup’s blog.