The Next Dimension of Google Maps - Official Post

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CraigD - Google

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Jun 6, 2012, 2:06:05 PM6/6/12
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Today, we provided a preview of some changes that are coming to the 3D landscape in Google Earth, starting on mobile devices. Later this summer, we’ll unveil a new way of displaying 3D buildings on Google Earth for mobile, achieved by building complete cityscapes from the 45-degree aerial imagery used in Google Maps and Building Maker.

One of the biggest challenges in showing 3D buildings in Google Earth has been gathering complete 3D coverage to represent the real world seamlessly and consistently. For example, many areas in Google Earth have specific buildings and landmarks in 3D where they are available, but the surrounding area is flattened out and only available in two dimensions.

New imagery rendering and computer vision techniques now allow us to create an accurate and comprehensive 3D representation of entire metropolitan areas. But we recognize this impacts our amazing geo modeling community. In the select areas where it will launch, the 3D Buildings layer on mobile and tablet devices will display only the new automatically generated 3D imagery. Manually modeled 3D buildings from both our users and own team will continue to appear everywhere else, as well as on desktop versions of Google Earth for now. As we expand our ability to provide comprehensive 3D buildings and terrain for entire cities and regions, we know this raises questions for anyone who has modeled for Google Earth.

What is going to happen to the buildings in Google Earth that I’ve modeled?
When we release the new 3D imagery in select regions later this summer, any models you’ve previously created in the areas covered by the new 3D imagery will no longer appear in Google Earth for mobile. Your models will remain available in the 3D Warehouse and continue to inform the 3D models in Google Maps.

What about Building Maker models?
Building Maker is a useful tool irregardless of the eligibility for those models to appear in the 3D Building layer in Google Earth. It's a great way to start a dimensionally accurate, aerially textured model for SketchUp, and useful for creating context models for SketchUp scenes. Building Maker will continue to be available for these purposes.

What about SketchUp models?
In the regions where the new 3D imagery is available, we will no longer publish the 3D Buildings layer in Google Earth for mobile. However, we anticipate that there will be many parts of the globe that will take some time to expand to with this new type of 3D imagery, or never be able to reach at all. In those regions, user contributed models will still be important for providing a complete picture of the 3D landscape. User contributed 3D buildings may also continue to help inform the 3D buildings on Maps.

Why is my model being replaced by something with less geometric detail?
In some cases, the close-up work done by individual modelers may be more detailed than the current model created by the new 3D imagery techniques. Those detailed and beautifully textured models will of course continue to be available in the 3D Warehouse, and we appreciate you letting us share your model in Google Earth to date to provide a representation of the world in three dimensions.

However, using aerial imagery to create 3D models enables us to keep these 3D versions of the world more accurate and up-to-date than is possible with manually created models. In addition, the new 3D buildings and terrain are all generated from the same high resolution aerial imagery, enabling precise alignment of the new models and a seamless 3D experience across an entire area. In an effort to create an accurate, consistent, and more complete 3D representation of the Earth, we are replacing all existing models with the new 3D imagery and will continue working to improve them over time.

WiIl I still be able to submit buildings to Google Earth?
We are thrilled by the commitment shown by users contributing 3D buildings to Google Earth, and hope to continue working with these modelers from all over the world to accurately and realistically represent areas where the new 3D models are not able to be created. We encourage you to submit your models for areas where we have not released new 3D imagery.

How will I know if my models are going to be affected?
We are currently exploring ways to inform you about changes to the places where your model appears.

So what does this mean for the future of 3D in Google Earth?
As mentioned above, there are many areas that will remain unaffected by the initial release of new 3D imagery on Google Earth for mobile, and will continue to display user contributed 3D models. For modelers who would still like to publish SketchUp models for clients, you can create your own instance of Google Earth via the plugin using the Google Earth API, which enables you to publish 3D content on the web to share with clients or the general public.

Our goal remains to create an accurate, consistent and comprehensive 3D representation of the Earth. With 3D imagery in its infancy, we can’t truly see what the future holds; but the one constant in this fast-paced, high-tech world is change, and further improvements are ahead.
 

peterg/gipuzkoa3d

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Jun 6, 2012, 3:39:24 PM6/6/12
to 3D Modeling for Google Earth & Maps
Hola Craig

Despues de leer tu post, me surgen algunas dudas..

¿ Esto quiere decir que todos modelos hechos en sketchup y aceptados
en la capa 0 van a desparecer de google earth ?

¿ Los modelos importantes se conservan en Google Earth ?  ¿ pero
desaparecen en los dispositivos móviles....?

¿ el cambio que anuncias,  solo significa una diferencia entre
móviles
y pc de escritorio ?

Me parece entender que..

¿solo en dispositivos móviles desparecen los modelos creados por
nosotros ?

esperando más información te envío un saludo...

:(
:)

Peterg

On 6 jun, 20:06, CraigD - Google <cra...@google.com> wrote:
> *Today, we provided a preview<http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2012/06/never-ending-quest-for-perfect...>of some changes that are coming to the 3D landscape in Google Earth,
> starting on mobile devices. Later this summer, we’ll unveil a new way of
> displaying 3D buildings on Google Earth for mobile, achieved by building
> complete cityscapes from the 45-degree aerial imagery used in Google Maps
> and Building Maker.
>
> One of the biggest challenges in showing 3D buildings in Google Earth has
> been gathering complete 3D coverage to represent the real world seamlessly
> and consistently. For example, many areas in Google Earth have specific
> buildings and landmarks in 3D where they are available, but the surrounding
> area is flattened out and only available in two dimensions.
>
> New imagery rendering and computer vision techniques now allow us to create
> an accurate and comprehensive 3D representation of entire metropolitan
> areas. But we recognize this impacts our amazing geo modeling community. In
> the select areas where it will launch, the 3D Buildings layer on mobile and
> tablet devices will display only the new automatically generated 3D
> imagery. Manually modeled 3D buildings from both our users and own team
> will continue to appear everywhere else, as well as on desktop versions of
> Google Earth for now. As we expand our ability to provide comprehensive 3D
> buildings and terrain for entire cities and regions, we know this raises
> questions for anyone who has modeled for Google Earth.
>
> What is going to happen to the buildings in Google Earth that I’ve modeled?
> When we release the new 3D imagery in select regions later this summer, any
> models you’ve previously created in the areas covered by the new 3D imagery
> will no longer appear in Google Earth for mobile. Your models will remain
> available in the 3D Warehouse and continue to inform the 3D models in
> Google Maps<http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/03/introducing-more-detailed-...>
> .
>
> What about Building Maker models?
> Building Maker is a useful tool irregardless of the eligibility for those
> models to appear in the 3D Building layer in Google Earth. It's a great way
> to start a dimensionally accurate, aerially textured model for SketchUp,
> and useful for creating context models for SketchUp scenes. Building Maker
> will continue to be available for these purposes.
>
> What about SketchUp models?
> In the regions where the new 3D imagery is available, we will no longer
> publish the 3D Buildings layer in Google Earth for mobile. However, we
> anticipate that there will be many parts of the globe that will take some
> time to expand to with this new type of 3D imagery, or never be able to
> reach at all. In those regions, user contributed models will still be
> important for providing a complete picture of the 3D landscape. User
> contributed 3D buildings may also continue to help inform the 3D buildings
> on Maps<http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/03/introducing-more-detailed-...>
> .
> instance of Google Earth via the plugin using the Google Earth API<https://developers.google.com/earth/>,
> which enables you to publish 3D content on the web to share with clients or
> the general public.
>
> Our goal remains to create an accurate, consistent and comprehensive 3D
> representation of the Earth. With 3D imagery in its infancy, we can’t truly
> see what the future holds; but the one constant in this fast-paced,
> high-tech world is change, and further improvements are ahead. *

drobbins

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Jun 6, 2012, 4:01:36 PM6/6/12
to 3D Modeling for Google Earth & Maps
Thanks for the update Craig!

The post still doesn't answer my questions.

1.Will those new models that will replace the ones that were made by
hand be interactive (clickable)?

This in my opinion was the real power of Google Earth's 3D layer was
to click on a whole building and have a pop-up bubble lead you to
other relevant information about the location or to Place pages of
nearby businesses. Does the new 3D buildings retain that layer of
interactivity or will that all be handled by geo-located icons near
the building locations?

Also, can I make individual buildings disappear like with the current
state of models in the 3D layer? That is convenient for me when I want
to place a new structure in an existing building's location. I right
click and make that model go away then upload through Sketchup my new
model in it's place. Will that type of functionality be retained?


Let's say there is a current location that has no user generated model
in the 3D warehouse, and an automated one is generated for the 3D
upgrade. I'm pretty sure that the automated one at ground level will
look melty and undefined, but I would like to take the model that
exists and use it as a base to refine and use for my own purposes.
Will the new Automated models be made available for download from the
3D warehouse so I could do that in Sketchup?

Thanks,

Darian


On Jun 6, 2:06 pm, CraigD - Google <cra...@google.com> wrote:
> *Today, we provided a preview<http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2012/06/never-ending-quest-for-perfect...>of some changes that are coming to the 3D landscape in Google Earth,
> starting on mobile devices. Later this summer, we’ll unveil a new way of
> displaying 3D buildings on Google Earth for mobile, achieved by building
> complete cityscapes from the 45-degree aerial imagery used in Google Maps
> and Building Maker.
>
> One of the biggest challenges in showing 3D buildings in Google Earth has
> been gathering complete 3D coverage to represent the real world seamlessly
> and consistently. For example, many areas in Google Earth have specific
> buildings and landmarks in 3D where they are available, but the surrounding
> area is flattened out and only available in two dimensions.
>
> New imagery rendering and computer vision techniques now allow us to create
> an accurate and comprehensive 3D representation of entire metropolitan
> areas. But we recognize this impacts our amazing geo modeling community. In
> the select areas where it will launch, the 3D Buildings layer on mobile and
> tablet devices will display only the new automatically generated 3D
> imagery. Manually modeled 3D buildings from both our users and own team
> will continue to appear everywhere else, as well as on desktop versions of
> Google Earth for now. As we expand our ability to provide comprehensive 3D
> buildings and terrain for entire cities and regions, we know this raises
> questions for anyone who has modeled for Google Earth.
>
> What is going to happen to the buildings in Google Earth that I’ve modeled?
> When we release the new 3D imagery in select regions later this summer, any
> models you’ve previously created in the areas covered by the new 3D imagery
> will no longer appear in Google Earth for mobile. Your models will remain
> available in the 3D Warehouse and continue to inform the 3D models in
> Google Maps<http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/03/introducing-more-detailed-...>
> .
>
> What about Building Maker models?
> Building Maker is a useful tool irregardless of the eligibility for those
> models to appear in the 3D Building layer in Google Earth. It's a great way
> to start a dimensionally accurate, aerially textured model for SketchUp,
> and useful for creating context models for SketchUp scenes. Building Maker
> will continue to be available for these purposes.
>
> What about SketchUp models?
> In the regions where the new 3D imagery is available, we will no longer
> publish the 3D Buildings layer in Google Earth for mobile. However, we
> anticipate that there will be many parts of the globe that will take some
> time to expand to with this new type of 3D imagery, or never be able to
> reach at all. In those regions, user contributed models will still be
> important for providing a complete picture of the 3D landscape. User
> contributed 3D buildings may also continue to help inform the 3D buildings
> on Maps<http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/03/introducing-more-detailed-...>
> .
> instance of Google Earth via the plugin using the Google Earth API<https://developers.google.com/earth/>,
> which enables you to publish 3D content on the web to share with clients or
> the general public.
>
> Our goal remains to create an accurate, consistent and comprehensive 3D
> representation of the Earth. With 3D imagery in its infancy, we can’t truly
> see what the future holds; but the one constant in this fast-paced,
> high-tech world is change, and further improvements are ahead. *

CraigD - Google

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Jun 6, 2012, 4:07:31 PM6/6/12
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Hi Peterg, 

I understand this news is coming as a shock to many of you, so we tried to detail what we could in the above announcement. That being said we're here to answer whatever questions we can.

No, not all models made in SketchUp will disappear. Only the 3D models (SketchUp and Building Maker) that are located in the selected cities in Google Earth will be replaced with the 3D imagery models.

Right now, Google Earth on mobile devices will replace the 3D Buildings in select areas when it is release later this summer. We believe that mobile access, on tablets and mobile devices, is becoming more important every day. Here's the official word:

Why is this only available on mobile? Will auto-generated buildings be available on Earth for desktop in the future?
Increasingly, users want to access information - be it text or geographical - while on the go. We’re excited to soon offer these 3D cities and tours on Google Earth for mobiles and tablets. We’re working to provide a consistent user experience across both mobile and desktop, and hope to announce a desktop version as soon as possible.
 

I hope that helps answer your questions.

Thanks,

    - CraigD

CraigD - Google

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Jun 6, 2012, 4:19:43 PM6/6/12
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Hi Darian, thanks for your good questions. Unfortunately, at this time I can't go into too many details about the functionality.

Regarding hide, because the buildings are created from a mesh, there is currently no "Hide Building" capability. 

More functional details will become available as we get closer to the mobile devices launch.

Cheers,

   - CraigD

Kevin DeVito

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Jun 6, 2012, 4:27:11 PM6/6/12
to 3d...@googlegroups.com
So Glad I partnered with Esri last year! This is the exact same method Apple will use. It is a big grid. I have no problem with that but your 3D modeler network will likely be unhappy. 

drobbins

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Jun 6, 2012, 4:44:17 PM6/6/12
to 3D Modeling for Google Earth & Maps
Kevin,

It's not that I am unhappy, but I'm disappointed. I see (saw) a lot of
potential for the tool that Google Earth/3D models/interactivity could
be, but realizing that it won't realize that full potential because
that's not Google's business focus. That's not a slight, Google, I
have enjoyed playing around with your tools, I just have a different
vision and desire for capabilities that I would want in those tools.

Darian

On Jun 6, 4:27 pm, Kevin DeVito <devitoke...@gmail.com> wrote:
> So Glad I partnered with Esri last year! This is the exact same method
> Apple will use. It is a big grid. I have no problem with that but your 3D
> modeler network will likely be unhappy.
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On Wednesday, June 6, 2012 11:06:05 AM UTC-7, CraigD - Google wrote:
>
> > *Today, we provided a preview<http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2012/06/never-ending-quest-for-perfect...>of some changes that are coming to the 3D landscape in Google Earth,
> > starting on mobile devices. Later this summer, we’ll unveil a new way of
> > displaying 3D buildings on Google Earth for mobile, achieved by building
> > complete cityscapes from the 45-degree aerial imagery used in Google Maps
> > and Building Maker.
>
> > One of the biggest challenges in showing 3D buildings in Google Earth has
> > been gathering complete 3D coverage to represent the real world seamlessly
> > and consistently. For example, many areas in Google Earth have specific
> > buildings and landmarks in 3D where they are available, but the surrounding
> > area is flattened out and only available in two dimensions.
>
> > New imagery rendering and computer vision techniques now allow us to
> > create an accurate and comprehensive 3D representation of entire
> > metropolitan areas. But we recognize this impacts our amazing geo modeling
> > community. In the select areas where it will launch, the 3D Buildings layer
> > on mobile and tablet devices will display only the new automatically
> > generated 3D imagery. Manually modeled 3D buildings from both our users and
> > own team will continue to appear everywhere else, as well as on desktop
> > versions of Google Earth for now. As we expand our ability to provide
> > comprehensive 3D buildings and terrain for entire cities and regions, we
> > know this raises questions for anyone who has modeled for Google Earth.
>
> > What is going to happen to the buildings in Google Earth that I’ve modeled?
> > When we release the new 3D imagery in select regions later this summer,
> > any models you’ve previously created in the areas covered by the new 3D
> > imagery will no longer appear in Google Earth for mobile. Your models will
> > remain available in the 3D Warehouse and continue to inform the 3D models
> > in Google Maps<http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/03/introducing-more-detailed-...>
> > .
>
> > What about Building Maker models?
> > Building Maker is a useful tool irregardless of the eligibility for those
> > models to appear in the 3D Building layer in Google Earth. It's a great way
> > to start a dimensionally accurate, aerially textured model for SketchUp,
> > and useful for creating context models for SketchUp scenes. Building Maker
> > will continue to be available for these purposes.
>
> > What about SketchUp models?
> > In the regions where the new 3D imagery is available, we will no longer
> > publish the 3D Buildings layer in Google Earth for mobile. However, we
> > anticipate that there will be many parts of the globe that will take some
> > time to expand to with this new type of 3D imagery, or never be able to
> > reach at all. In those regions, user contributed models will still be
> > important for providing a complete picture of the 3D landscape. User
> > contributed 3D buildings may also continue to help inform the 3D
> > buildings on Maps<http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/03/introducing-more-detailed-...>
> > .
> > instance of Google Earth via the plugin using the Google Earth API<https://developers.google.com/earth/>,
> > which enables you to publish 3D content on the web to share with clients or
> > the general public.
>
> > Our goal remains to create an accurate, consistent and comprehensive 3D
> > representation of the Earth. With 3D imagery in its infancy, we can’t truly
> > see what the future holds; but the one constant in this fast-paced,
> > high-tech world is change, and further improvements are ahead. *

profedetecno

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Jun 6, 2012, 5:07:49 PM6/6/12
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Que me lo expliquen por favor.

Van a desaparecer nuestros edificios de google earth?
Van a dejar de aceptar edificios en google earth?
Soy profesor en un instituto y mis alumnos estan entusiamados con crear modelos, incluso han participado en el MYT 2012, y quieren seguir creando edificios. ¿Que les digo? parad chicos que ya no los van  aceptar.

Me gustaria que me lo aclarasen.
Gracias.

profedetecno

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Jun 6, 2012, 5:09:25 PM6/6/12
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Tiene esto algo que ver con la compra de sketchup por parte de Trimble?


El miércoles, 6 de junio de 2012 20:06:05 UTC+2, CraigD - Google escribió:

Paul van Dinther

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Jun 6, 2012, 5:09:51 PM6/6/12
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I must be using maps wrong. First of all, I never use Google earth on my Nexus one. In fact. I un-installed it to make some room. When I am out and about I use Google maps a lot. Mostly for turn by turn navigation but also to orient what I am on foot. The reason a flat map works on a mobile phone is because the interaction is easy and I am only interested in where am I and how do I get there. Sometimes I search for a business but that is rare.

Having 3D landscape and city data available is great if I want to see a location in context. This is more when I want to know something about a location for holiday, accommodation, real-estate etc. I don't tend to do that on my mobile phone but on my large screen desktop. But this is of course only my perspective on it all.

I suspect the real reason this new data is rolled out to mobile first is because there is little legacy. Mixing the old 3D building data with the new data is probably undesirable and therefore desktop won't be rolled out until enough of the new data is available. I am guessing the Google Earth code base is about to be scrapped as Google transitions to a 3D enabled maps on the browser using Web-GL

I would like to know how much of the Google Earth API will be retained. I suspect the First person view possible in Google Earth will no longer be available due to technical and resolution limitations. As a Google Earth developer it would be great to hear more about this.

drobbins

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Jun 6, 2012, 5:17:59 PM6/6/12
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That's a good question about the API functionality, Paul.

pmolsen

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Jun 6, 2012, 5:21:38 PM6/6/12
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It didn't take long for the axe to fall. This is what I said on May 5th on the Supermodeler forum following the Trimble announcement:

"As I said in a posting a month or so ago, several other companies have already demonstrated automated 3D modelling of complete cities. Google will be left behind in the dust if it continues with manual modelling.

 I suspect this is the beginning of the end for our hobby. I expect they will release automated models for numerous complete cities in the near future. Then they won’t need Sketchup (or us) any more.

 Oh well, it was fun while it lasted."


Craig, are  you able to tell us whether Google intends to publish the rollout schedule of cities to Earth and Maps desktop please? I was working on a major modelling project (Cockatoo Island in SYdney Harbour). Clearly no point in continuing if Sydney will be replaced in the near future.

Another question. Will it be possible to turn off the 3D buildings mesh and turn on either all or individual Sketchup models, or are they now effectively dead and buried? 

pmolsen

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Jun 6, 2012, 5:30:47 PM6/6/12
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I feel sorry for you in particular Paul. You obviously have a lot more time and energy invested in the current Earth and Maps than many. 


On Thursday, June 7, 2012 7:09:51 AM UTC+10, Paul van Dinther wrote:
I must be using maps wrong. First of all, I never use Google earth on my Nexus one. In fact. I un-installed it to make some room. When I am out and about I use Google maps a lot. Mostly for turn by turn navigation but also to orient what I am on foot. The reason a flat map works on a mobile phone is because the interaction is easy and I am only interested in where am I and how do I get there. Sometimes I search for a business but that is rare.

Having 3D landscape and city data available is great if I want to see a location in context. This is more when I want to know something about a location for holiday, accommodation, real-estate etc. I don't tend to do that on my mobile phone but on my large screen desktop. But this is of course only my perspective on it all.

I suspect the real reason this new data is rolled out to mobile first is because there is little legacy. Mixing the old 3D building data with the new data is probably undesirable and therefore desktop won't be rolled out until enough of the new data is available. I am guessing the Google Earth code base is about to be scrapped as Google transitions to a 3D enabled maps on the browser using Web-GL

I would like to know how much of the Google Earth API will be retained. I suspect the First person view possible in Google Earth will no longer be available due to technical and resolution limitations. As a Google Earth developer it would be great to hear more about this.

Hey Pauyl

CraigD - Google

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Jun 6, 2012, 5:33:52 PM6/6/12
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Hello profedetecno, there are many regions that will not be affected for quite some time. Your class will still be able to create models for your region using SketchUp, but it is currently unclear how they will be previewed in areas that have auto generated 3D data.

Only buildings that are in auto generated areas will disappear from Google Earth when it is released.

It is unclear what the plans are for Model Your Town competitions at this time.

The autogenerated 3D model technology has nothing to do with SketchUp's sale to Trimble.

Thank you for your questions.

Cheers,

     - CraigD

CraigD - Google

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Jun 6, 2012, 5:46:36 PM6/6/12
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Hi Peter, I can appreciate your disappointment. Your models are some of the best in all of Google Earth.

As you may know Google does not publish rollout schedules for any of its data updates, so unfortunately I can't speculate on the schedule of 3D imagery cities.

It's still unclear whether the 3D imagery will have the ability to be toggled off in certain regions, but there are currently no plans to have an additional 3D Buildings layer in areas that have 3D imagery data. There will still be many regions that will continue to display the 3D Buildings layer for some time though. I'll be able to answer questions like this in more detail as the release dates get closer.

     - CraigD



peterg/gipuzkoa3d

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Jun 6, 2012, 5:46:16 PM6/6/12
to 3D Modeling for Google Earth & Maps
Hello Craig

Una pregunta directa sobre lo que a mi me puede afectar...

En mi ciudad San Sebastián, dispongo de mas de 200 modelos (buenos
modelos) fabricados a mano.
Actualmente en google maps, existe la posibilidad de ver imágenes de
la ciudad a 45º, desde la actualización de 2 de febrero 2012.
¿ significa esto que próximamente mis modelos volaran de la capa de
Google Earth de escritorio ?
¿ esto significa que también volaran de mis aplicaciones hechas con el
plugin GE ?

Otro ejemplo sería la ciudad ganadora del ultimo concurso MYT 2012,
Getaria.
¿También serán retirados en el tiempo cuando se dispongan imágenes a
45º ?
Si esto es así puede significar mucho....en el caso de Getaria.......
En este momento bing maps ya las ofrece a 45º y posiblemente vosotros
también dispongáis de ellas, puesto que son imágenes publicas de libre
uso..


saludos
Peteg


On 6 jun, 23:33, CraigD - Google <cra...@google.com> wrote:
> Hello profedetecno, there are many regions that will not be affected for
> quite some time. Your class will still be able to create models for your
> region using SketchUp, but it is currently unclear how they will be
> previewed in areas that have auto generated 3D data.
>
> Only buildings that are in auto generated areas will disappear from Google
> Earth when it is released.
>
> It is unclear what the plans are for Model Your Town competitions at this
> time.
>
> The autogenerated 3D model technology has nothing to do with SketchUp's
> sale to Trimble.
>
> Thank you for your questions.
>
> Cheers,
>
>      - CraigD
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
> On Wednesday, June 6, 2012 3:07:49 PM UTC-6, profedetecno wrote:
>
> > Que me lo expliquen por favor.
>
> > Van a desaparecer nuestros edificios de google earth?
> > Van a dejar de aceptar edificios en google earth?
> > Soy profesor en un instituto y mis alumnos estan entusiamados con crear
> > modelos, incluso han participado en el MYT 2012, y quieren seguir creando
> > edificios. ¿Que les digo? parad chicos que ya no los van  aceptar.
>
> > Me gustaria que me lo aclarasen.
> > Gracias.
>
> > El miércoles, 6 de junio de 2012 20:06:05 UTC+2, CraigD - Google escribió:
>
> >> *Today, we provided a preview<http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2012/06/never-ending-quest-for-perfect...>of some changes that are coming to the 3D landscape in Google Earth,
> >> models in Google Maps<http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/03/introducing-more-detailed-...>
> >> .
>
> >> What about Building Maker models?
> >> Building Maker is a useful tool irregardless of the eligibility for those
> >> models to appear in the 3D Building layer in Google Earth. It's a great way
> >> to start a dimensionally accurate, aerially textured model for SketchUp,
> >> and useful for creating context models for SketchUp scenes. Building Maker
> >> will continue to be available for these purposes.
>
> >> What about SketchUp models?
> >> In the regions where the new 3D imagery is available, we will no longer
> >> publish the 3D Buildings layer in Google Earth for mobile. However, we
> >> anticipate that there will be many parts of the globe that will take some
> >> time to expand to with this new type of 3D imagery, or never be able to
> >> reach at all. In those regions, user contributed models will still be
> >> important for providing a complete picture of the 3D landscape. User
> >> contributed 3D buildings may also continue to help inform the 3D
> >> buildings on Maps<http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/03/introducing-more-detailed-...>
> >> .
> >> instance of Google Earth via the plugin using the Google Earth API<https://developers.google.com/earth/>,
> >> which enables you to publish 3D content on the web to share with clients or
> >> the general public.
>
> >> Our goal remains to create an accurate, consistent and comprehensive 3D
> >> representation of the Earth. With 3D imagery in its infancy, we can’t truly
> >> see what the future holds; but the one constant in this fast-paced,
> >> high-tech world is change, and further improvements are ahead. *
>
> On Wednesday, June 6, 2012 3:07:49 PM UTC-6, profedetecno wrote:
>
> > Que me lo expliquen por favor.
>
> > Van a desaparecer nuestros edificios de google earth?
> > Van a dejar de aceptar edificios en google earth?
> > Soy profesor en un instituto y mis alumnos estan entusiamados con crear
> > modelos, incluso han participado en el MYT 2012, y quieren seguir creando
> > edificios. ¿Que les digo? parad chicos que ya no los van  aceptar.
>
> > Me gustaria que me lo aclarasen.
> > Gracias.
>
> > El miércoles, 6 de junio de 2012 20:06:05 UTC+2, CraigD - Google escribió:
>
> >> *Today, we provided a preview<http://googleblog.blogspot.com/2012/06/never-ending-quest-for-perfect...>of some changes that are coming to the 3D landscape in Google Earth,
> >> models in Google Maps<http://google-latlong.blogspot.com/2012/03/introducing-more-detailed-...>
> >> .
>
> >> What about Building Maker models?
> >> Building Maker is a useful tool irregardless of the eligibility for those
> >> models to appear in the 3D Building layer in Google Earth. It's a great way
> >> to
>
> ...
>
> leer más »

CraigD - Google

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Jun 6, 2012, 6:18:16 PM6/6/12
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Hi PeterG, I'm not entirely sure what your question is, but we're not publishing the names of cities that will have 3D imagery data at this time. I would assume that larger cities will be published before smaller cities, but this may vary.

Since we have our own airplanes to collect the 3D imagery data, we are not relying on public/free/licensed data from other sources at this time, regardless of whether they have it already.

Thanks,
 
     - CraigD


Sebastian S.

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Jun 6, 2012, 6:33:08 PM6/6/12
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Does that mean that all my work (and that of others too of course) is for nothing?? I'm modeling since I'm 16, that would be 3 years for nothing?!
 
Most of my models are Skyscrapers (Skyscraper=big city=new imagery), does that mean they all are gonna be replaced with this new technology? Maybe you don't see it always but I really work hard on (nearly) every model, and so do many other. There must be a way that everybody is satisfied...
 
Why can't it be for mobile use only?
 
Regards
 
Sebastian S.

Beryl Reid

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Jun 6, 2012, 6:41:38 PM6/6/12
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Thanks for the announcement Craig. I'm glad I was around for the "early years" of 3D Google Earth and Maps. It was a lot of fun to be a part of it, and feel like a contributor to such an awesome experience. You know really well and personally how many hours goes into good geo modeling. I am not going to look upon those hours as wasted time, but I do see how this changes everything. We would be foolish to expect a digital earth to remain the same over time. It's what happens in a digital world... change and evolution.

It does feel unsettling and uncertain. I'm looking forward to the next 3D world in Earth and Maps. I also plan to continue my own 3D modeling because it gives me so much personal pleasure I can't imagine just stopping.

regards
Beryl Reid

CraigD - Google

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Jun 6, 2012, 6:45:49 PM6/6/12
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Hi Sebastian, your models are all very good and I completely understand how this news affects you. I can only imagine your disappointment. The 3D imagery has made big advancements that allow city-wide regions to be created and updated comprehensively and accurately. The real downside is that people's work like yours, mine and many others will no longer fit in the landscape. There will be many areas that will still require hand made models for some time to come, but most of those will indeed be outside of large populated areas.

I really wish I had a better answer for you, but we had to make some difficult decisions for future development, and this was one of them.

That being said, this change is not immediate so there is still time to display your models.

    - CraigD

CraigD - Google

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Jun 6, 2012, 7:05:28 PM6/6/12
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Thank you Beryl, I always appreciate your positive outlook!  We didn't come to these changes easily...there were a lot of "what if" meetings and for those like yourself who take a lot of joy in the art of modeling, it was even more difficult to make such a drastic change to the way we display Google Earth in 3D.  In the end it was nearly impossible to merge the two technologies and we focused on what is really the beginning of a new era of 3D.  Being able to create 3D cityscapes - complete with buildings, terrain and even landscaping - from 45-degree aerial imagery means that models do not get mis-aligned, or have incomplete textures, or inaccurate heights, but it comes at the cost of some very nice models.  I plan on continuing to model with Sketchup too. :)

Cheers,

     - Craig

fguerra

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Jun 6, 2012, 7:17:55 PM6/6/12
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Craig:

Modeling for Google Earth via Sketchup has been a great hobby for me for the last 2 years or so, and I´m not going to stop. As soon as this weekend I have plans to travel to a nearby town to collect all data possible so i can start modeling some buildings.

I can´t deny that Sketchup selling announcement and this Google Maps news have been a shock, but we can´t stop technology and this step was just long awaited for many people. As for Google Earth I would like to give you a couple of recommendations:
1.- Even if we get to the time to have all the world mapped with your new plane technology, It would be nice to keep the man made building models in a separate layer. That way we can keep modeling feeling it is worth doing it.
2.- Be able to download certain area terrain data to Sketchup so we can use it for real life projects, making use of the accuracy you are offering now.
3.- Trees and landscape layer. What is the world but a great landscape project. You know you can do better on this one.

I really hope this changes are for the better.
Federico Guerra
Monterrey, Mexico.
Message has been deleted

2k10

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Jun 6, 2012, 7:22:57 PM6/6/12
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Hello every 3d Modeler,

This is something that as a user I have been expecting since years ago, and as a 3d Modeler has been worrying me the same amount of time, since I began to use Sketchup in 2007. Obviously, Google can't wait for us to model every building in every city and town around the world. Can't, and shouldn't. I understand that.

Selling the software that we have been using for years to model buildings manually in Google Earth was a signal for me. Making the option to download/delete all our 3d models available from the 3D Warehouse a few days ago is another.

On the other hand, Google is rolling out its own 3d auto-generated models in mobile because the world is becoming mobile day by day. Like it or not, it's a fact. But of course, I think it's also a fact that it only takes a bit more of effort to make the 3d Google Auto-generated models available in Google Maps & Earth desktop versions. Google hasn't said that they are replacing all the 3d models of the actual 3d layer in all versions and platforms of Google Maps & Earth soon. But it hasn't said anything to the contrary. In business talk that means to me that they will, of course, replace them. Who could blame them?

In my humble opinion, and I wish I was totally wrong with this, there is no place for 3d modelers in the Next Dimension of Google Maps & Earth. :(

Anyway, thank you Google for all the happy modeling during this years. :) 

Asdas

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Jun 6, 2012, 7:25:26 PM6/6/12
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Hi,

I was wondering if this going to include the Middle East countries? Will all the models in this area be removed too?
And if we upload new models now, will they stay for a long time or what?

Paul van Dinther

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Jun 6, 2012, 7:37:27 PM6/6/12
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On Thursday, June 7, 2012 9:30:47 AM UTC+12, pmolsen wrote:
I feel sorry for you in particular Paul. You obviously have a lot more time and energy invested in the current Earth and Maps than many. 


Don't be sorry Peter, I don't expect Google to throw out their API. The platform changes, probably some API changes but this development actually increases the potential user base. Despite being assured the Google Earth will be around for a while, I remain sceptical. Google has a 3 year depreciation policy that over the years will reduce to one year so I know that Google Earth in its current form will be around for at least 3 years. But that is not enough for some of the large projects I am working on.

So, I am keen to embrace the new tech ASAP and run with it while benefiting from the increased attention maps are getting. But I am running ahead of myself, I have no knowledge or even subtle hints from Google that they have a Web-Gl version of Google Earth in the works. It just makes sense that they do.

In fact their HD video http://youtu.be/N6Douyfa7l8 seems to have been recorded using a Space Navigator which suggests the video is made on a special version of Google Earth. It is frustrating that we get so little heads up from Google as it makes running a business around Google Technology very difficult.

I am sorry for all the modellers out there that their work will gradually vanish but maps must represent the real world and not the artists interpretation of it. I trust the auto generated data a lot more and prefer it, despite the lesser geometric detail.

So.... Bring it on Google!! :-)

pmolsen

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Jun 6, 2012, 7:42:49 PM6/6/12
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Hi Craig,

From a technical perspective, I know that the Streetview cars are equipped with Lidar scanners as well as cameras. Will Google be using that data, both the point cloud as well as the streetview imagery, combined with the 45-degree photography, to construct the automated models? It would obviously give a much more accurate representation.

CraigD - Google

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Jun 6, 2012, 7:51:40 PM6/6/12
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Hi Peter, we're not using Streetview data for the 3D imagery models, it's all data from the air.

Cheers,

    - Craig

Jason Mill

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Jun 6, 2012, 8:07:37 PM6/6/12
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I'm very disappointed for our clients who have paid to have beautiful handcrafted models at the humanistic street level and will see them replaced by crude aerial based auto gen models .. and now have no control of when/if/how their business will appear. I'm pleased our contracts stated could not gaurantee Google would not drop user generated 3D models in the future.

We've been in this game since 2004 and had only just solidified a good business model around our model assets and their use in GE .. luckily for us we had a feeling this move was coming and so have worked on delivering our model set via other mediums, including gaming engines and AR apps.

We also would like to see the functionality of the API and GE desktop maintained so that kml/kmz based data/models can be viewed in this way. Photo-realistic models are only the beginning of what can be visualised in GE.

Looking at the bigger picture this is a great move for tech in general although I expect a very similar eye candy based model from Apple next week .. Google had the market cornered on interactive user driven 3D models and its a shame they feel the need to dump it.

Had a ball while it lasted .. cheers to all the crew here in the 3DGEO community, I've enjoyed sharing with you all.

best
Jason

pmolsen

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Jun 6, 2012, 8:37:48 PM6/6/12
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A couple more questions:

- What happens to all the models in the 3D Buildings Layer that are not buildings? For example there are numerous aeroplanes, ships, cable cars etc. that obviously will not be modelled by the aerial photography. Will they be retained or will they all vanish?

- What about KMZ files and in particular animations? Will they still be supported in GE? Are there any plans to provide support for them in Maps?

Auquicu

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Jun 6, 2012, 10:12:09 PM6/6/12
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Will data collected with the planes used to change the terrain in Google Earth those areas that are currently not so accurate? 

Denoall

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Jun 6, 2012, 11:42:49 PM6/6/12
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Pedro es obvio no usaron ahora remplazaran nuestros modelos probablemente no nos afecte a todos en este momento pero mas temprano que tarde nos afectara ellos hablan de que no podran usar esta tecnologia en todas las areas pero como si no te remplazaran los modelos futuros tambien la verdad estoy en desacuerdo totalmente con esto

Message has been deleted

Denoall

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Jun 6, 2012, 11:49:56 PM6/6/12
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This is a treason to the 3d community after all the hard work we have put in Google earth this is really unfair. I really do not feel like keep modelling after reading your post

Oliver Davis

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Jun 7, 2012, 12:21:34 AM6/7/12
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Thanks for forwarding links to Brian's announcement Craig (and the Q and A). A Steve Jobs said at his 2005 Stanford Commencement Speech,  "Don’t be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people’s thinking."  You have to think for yourself, move on, adapt and make it your own.

While this group's 3D is fully navigable and not oblique 45-degree renderings, the GE models today are heavyweight and the navigation is tricky for most users. This news really should come as no surprise - especially as it relates to mobile. That said, while we expect change we have damage control to deal with in the real, client facing world.

Craig, please don't take offense to these pointed questions, we just would like some insights:

-Will the GE plug-in/API continue to be supported for non-mobile environments?  If it is deprecated, will this group be notified of Google's plans to remove custom models from the API entirely?  What's Google's interpretation of its deprecation and notification requirements for the API and model support? Under Section 4 of the Warehouse TOS it appears that the submitted content and features may be removed without notice. While the Maps API TOS is a bit different. 

4. Provision of the Services by Google (Warehouse)

4.3 As part of this continuing innovation, you acknowledge and agree that Google may stop (permanently or temporarily) providing the Services (or any features within the Services) to you or to users generally at Google’s sole discretion, without prior notice to you.  

Maps API TOS https://developers.google.com/maps/terms

4.4 Changes to the Service; Deprecation Policy.

Google will announce if we intend to discontinue or make backwards incompatible changes to this API or Service. We will use commercially reasonable efforts to continue to operate the Service or the applicable APIs without these changes until the later of: (i) one year after the announcement or (ii) April 20, 2015, unless (as Google determines in its reasonable good faith judgment):

-Can you explain what 'informed' for 3D maps mean? 

-Will there be a way to develop or submit 'better models' or obliques than the LIDAR generated models in the presentation? What's the process? Is UGC dead except for photos?

-Will users be able to update these new 3D models with on-site imagery?  Could one download and replace textures or update geometry if models are replaced? UGC is being used to updated and model terrain more accurately.  Would 3D go down a similar path?

-When/where have UG models been used in mobile? Are you just referring to Nexus One?  

-You mentioned hosting models on your own GE environment. The performance is poor (slow) since the content isn't compressed and hosted by Google. Can Google share the compression algorithm for our own version and use of the GE-API? Make server/hosting recommendations? Wouldn't this group be required to establish an enterprise account (if they were to pass through hosting costs)? 

-What is Google doing with the SketchUp/GE models that this group has submitted? What happens if they are removed from the warehouse? Marked Private? Did Google sublicense/assign our models and client information/data to Trimble? Also from Warehouse TOS...

11. Content license from you

11.1 (b) By submitting, posting or displaying the content you give Google a perpetual, sublicensable, irrevocable, worldwide, royalty-free, and non-exclusive license to reproduce, adapt, modify, translate, publish, publicly perform, publicly display and distribute any Content or derivative works thereof which you submit, post or display on or through, the Services.

11.2 You agree that this license includes a right for Google to make such Content available to other companies, organizations or individuals with whom Google has relationships for the provision of syndicated services, and to use such Content in connection with the provision of those services.


If you want to survive, you need to embrace the change. If you want to continue adding value over Google products you should consider this an opportunity. Add custom Streetview to your services, sign up as a trusted photographer, repurpose your SketchUp files as map overlays, build interior maps, make everything you do mobile friendly, build a relationship with the new SketchUp guys and design and develop your own products.

We look forward to continued dialogue.

Francis LaLonde

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Jun 7, 2012, 1:24:04 AM6/7/12
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Well, I've only been involved with the 3D community a little over a year.  I'm a little sad that modeling on the 'personal' level is being phased out (though slowly, and with a town population of about 32,000, it'll probably be a couple of years before we - Bay City, MI - get coverage).  Still, I've enjoyed learning how to use SketchUp, which I'm hoping can eventually assist me in learning other modeling programs, such as Blender - with a view towards creating animation/videos.

I do have a few questions:
1 - is SketchUp version 8 going to be the last version?
2 - will SketchUp continue to be freely available (well, I currently don't have need for the 'pro' version - LOL ) ?

Otherwise, I'm just glad to have been able to tag along for the ride.

stada

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Jun 7, 2012, 1:48:15 AM6/7/12
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This move of Google is completely understandable to me. It doesn't surprise me that Google was looking for a quicker way to show the world's buildings 3D.  The hours, no years, I have spent in modelling I'll use for modelling augmented reality apps, 3D prints, etc. 
A question: am I still allowed that to use the Google Qualified 3D Geo Modeler logo? 

Regards,
Dick Stada

 

pmolsen

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Jun 7, 2012, 2:25:19 AM6/7/12
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Hi Craig,

Are you able to say whether the automated data will cover the entire metropolitan area of cities please, or will it mainly just cover the central business district?

Wherever it ends, what happens with models that are outside that area? Do they remain? Will be be able to add new models, or will there be a halt to any more 3D Building layer additions?

Totally off topic, but if Google wants to make money from its products, why has it not yet made Google Earth the real estate sales centre of the world, by allowing real estate agents to create street-view type presentations of the inside of houses. Potential buyers could then walk seamlessly from outside the house to inside it? Seems a no-brainer to me.

Robert Wüest

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Jun 7, 2012, 5:02:10 AM6/7/12
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This pushes the 3D modelling community into a niche. I suppose opensource technologies are the future for 3D modelling enthusiats.

Take a look at www.openwebglobe.org there will be a lot of interesting features coming up concerning 3D models.

Cheers


Am Mittwoch, 6. Juni 2012 20:06:05 UTC+2 schrieb CraigD - Google:
Today, we provided a preview of some changes that are coming to the 3D landscape in Google Earth, starting on mobile devices. Later this summer, we’ll unveil a new way of displaying 3D buildings on Google Earth for mobile, achieved by building complete cityscapes from the 45-degree aerial imagery used in Google Maps and Building Maker.

matthiasbasler

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Jun 7, 2012, 5:36:59 AM6/7/12
to 3D Modeling for Google Earth & Maps
Hi all,

This move was to be expected in some way. Still it comes to a surprise
to me: I had not expected GE to switch now. It seems to come to a
point when (in my impression) all larger cities have achieved a rather
continuous coverage with 3D models, largely based on the use of
BuildingMaker. Had this technology been announced before BuildingMaker
launched the argument of providing a "more complete coverage" had
sounded much more reasonable. Seeing the tech demo, the "consistency"
aspect seems much more important to me.

What I am sad about is that seemingly for now the community is left
out of this new technology. Of course, this means savings for Google
since they don't have to review individual models in these areas any
more, but the downside is that customers have to live with what they
get without a chance to improve on it ... and it might be a downgrade
for some of them.

Two years ago I stated that I would wish that just this technology of
creating 3D cities from imagery would be available to the community so
we could fill the *real* gaps (meaning: the smaller cities and towns)
based on public oblique imagery or images taken during own photo
flights. Now Google first replaces metropolitan areas which often
already have a large coverage. Hm...

Anyway, I had hoped to see this technology change arrive in a
different flavour, so to speak. We'll see if Google some day comes up
with plans to involve the community into this new technology again.

Matthias Basler
Message has been deleted

alexschreyer

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Jun 7, 2012, 9:27:19 AM6/7/12
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Thanks, Craig, for the updates.

Living in a small college town, I am pretty sure I can assume that our models won't be replaced anytime soon. Maybe this is some good news for the geo-modeler community: if you concentrate on less-populated areas, then the chances that Google will replace your models with auto generated data is very slim. It is likely too cost prohibitive for them to fly over those areas. Having said that, it might be useful for Google to announce a population cutoff below which you guys will not cover cities - that would give modeled some certainty.

Another idea is to have a "geo-modeler" layer next to the new 3d buildings layer in GE. This could then feature user-generated content and could be turned on by the user, if desired. You could even implement it in a way where - when turned on - the new building mesh is not displayed where user-generated models exist. That should be easy to implement using bounding-box cropping.

Cheers,
Alex

Zoungy Kligge

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Jun 7, 2012, 10:53:48 AM6/7/12
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I like Alex's idea of parallel layers-- mesh and non-mesh. Each has its advantages!

peterg/gipuzkoa3d

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Jun 7, 2012, 11:06:50 AM6/7/12
to 3D Modeling for Google Earth & Maps
Hola

Si bien me ha parecido entender la versión de escritorio de GE, tendrá
una nueva capa para activar el 3d photografico..y mantener si deseas
la actual capa de modelos manuales..

espero estar en lo cierto... ¿ podrías confirmar este dato Craig ?

http://www.gearthblog.com/blog/archives/2012/06/google_announces_upcoming_3d.html

" While the new auto-generated buildings will effectively supplant the
current 3D buildings for Google Earth for mobile for some major
cities, the old 3D data will not necessarily be taken away on the
desktop version of Google Earth. "


best ¡¡

Peterg

On 7 jun, 16:53, Zoungy Kligge <lkli...@gmail.com> wrote:
> Me gusta la idea de Alex de capas paralelas - la malla y no de malla.Cada uno tiene susventajas!
>
>
>
>
>
>
>
>

SnowTiger

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Jun 7, 2012, 1:06:02 PM6/7/12
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Well this all sounds great for Mobile Devices etc, it is a bit of a disappointment for me.
Although, I'm guessing Canada will have to wait another 10 years to experience any of it because we're always sucking the hind teet when it comes to this stuff (it seems).

Overall it is disappointing to learn that there will be a day (sooner rather than later by the sound of it) when our 3D Geo-Models will no longer be needed or used for anything.
While clients will still be able to use Google API on their own websites if they so desire, that won't help tourists (for example) trying to find any particular business if they don't already have knowledge of it. In other words, they'll never see that Business Website Google API unless they know to look for it.

So I'm curious if these auto-generated 3D worlds will still include Building/Business Specific Information if/when people click on those auto-generated models ?
If so, how often will that information/data be updated (EG: in the event a business moves) ?

Obviously, this is all new (to us) and it will take a while to completely understand all the implications, but I for one am more than just a little sad about the whole ordeal.
I realize that may well be unfounded and based solely on my ignorance of scope of this whole announcement .... but that is certainly how I currently feel about it.

I'm going to have to completely rethink what I am doing and trying to do etc (from a business perspective) and decide if it's worth continuing at all. Is it even worth my while, my time and my client's money to even bother with a hand-made 3D Geo-Model ?

I'm almost sorry I upgraded my SU Pro this week.
Good thing it has many more uses than just Geo-Modeling ... but now I have to figure out which of those uses are of any use to me.

Any more bad news ?

CraigD - Google

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Jun 7, 2012, 1:19:42 PM6/7/12
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Hi Jason, I can appreciate your disappointment as this new impacts part of your business. Regarding the API; yes the functionality of the API is planned to continue as is, so you'll be able to create and host 3D buildings this way.

     - CraigD

CraigD - Google

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Jun 7, 2012, 1:25:58 PM6/7/12
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Hi Peterg, the blog you quoted has stated that information is speculation. I will include for you the official Google press release FAQ on this subject:

Why is this only available on mobile? Will auto-generated buildings be available on Earth for desktop in the future?
Increasingly, users want to access information - be it text or geographical - while on the go. We’re excited to soon offer these 3D cities and tours on Google Earth for mobiles and tablets. We’re working to provide a consistent user experience across both mobile and desktop, and hope to announce a desktop version as soon as possible.
 

     - Craig

Oliver Davis

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Jun 7, 2012, 1:28:01 PM6/7/12
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If someone else hosted a 3D model 'layer' via the API, along with a repository, would you be willing to pay a monthly fee for hosting your content? If so, what would you be willing to pay? $10/month? $25/month? By the amount of content/storage? Could you charge your customers a maintenance fee for storing and handling the content?

-Oliver



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Kevin DeVito

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Jun 7, 2012, 1:49:52 PM6/7/12
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Darian,

I agree. I have a lot of questions regarding Google's focus on GIS now. Will Earth Builder still be supported? I like the concept of the GWH. I wish Google had added more features on a regular basis. I guess the API will always be there for the modelers which can be a benefit. There are a lot of unknowns now.

Kevin

Kevin DeVito

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Jun 7, 2012, 1:51:22 PM6/7/12
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Good question Mr. Oliver.

CraigD - Google

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Jun 7, 2012, 4:49:41 PM6/7/12
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Hi Jorge, yes the 3D imagery data collects buildings, bodies of water, terrain, trees, landscaping, cars/trucks/trains. Basically everything that exists in the imagery at the time of data collection. It will have much more accurate terrain in the regions that use the 3D imagery data.

    - Craig

2k10

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Jun 7, 2012, 5:20:51 PM6/7/12
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Hi Craig, I have another question for you! :)
There are a lot of cities right now that have 45º imagery. Were these photos taken using the new technology? I mean, will these cities have generated 3d models or are we talking about a 2nd generation 3d airplanes?

Thank you!

CraigD - Google

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Jun 7, 2012, 5:39:55 PM6/7/12
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Hi 2k10, I can't go into too much detail on that, but in some cases the data is applicable to both 45º imagery and 3D imagery.

Cheers,

     - Craig

CraigD - Google

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Jun 7, 2012, 5:45:51 PM6/7/12
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Denoall, I can understand your reaction. This wasn't an easy decision for us to make and in no way represents the respect we have for you all. We are modelers as well, and share your feelings. However, for Google Earth to continue to be at the forefront of 3D technology, we have to evolve and use the latest technology possible. I realize this comes as a complete shock to some, and I can completely understand your reaction. 

I hope that you do continue to enjoy modeling in SketchUp, even if we're unable to display your work in 3D imagery cities.

      - Craig

CraigD - Google

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Jun 7, 2012, 5:50:25 PM6/7/12
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Hello Francis, as you may know, SketchUp has been sold to Trimble and is no longer in the control of Google, so I can't answer these questions.  That being said, Trimble has shown genuine enthusiasm for the future of SketchUp.

Cheers,

    - CraigD  

Zeljko Zdravkovic

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Jun 7, 2012, 6:05:45 PM6/7/12
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Hello!

Computer made models will never have the same quality like handmade models, and thats the fact. This was expected, spec. after Sketchup transfer to Trimble. 
This is just how market works today in the business world. I understand everyone, I share the same opinion like you guys.

Greetings from 3D Belgrade, Serbia ! 
I hope that we will have one more conference this year ;)

Love you all !

Zex

Sebastian S.

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Jun 7, 2012, 6:47:41 PM6/7/12
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But I don't understand why it has to be one of those two 'versions', why can't both versions not be compined?


The post of Auquicu seems to be a solution everybody can live with...

https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/3dwh/RtxD5JGbc1o


It was possible with grey buildings so why isn't that possible with those two different typs of layers? I understand that this is not a solution for the mobile service but to be honest (even if it sounds harsh) those people (or let me say the most of them) who use this service don't know what is behind this project so I guess they don't care if there's only one version accessible on their smart phone, etc.


I really hope that the Google Guides (who I think, are the last ones who want this like that) can bring this possible solution to those who make the decisions.


I will not renounce all hope yet! :)

Paul van Dinther

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Jun 7, 2012, 7:11:15 PM6/7/12
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I think you are missing the point of why Google has maps. It is not there to keep us entertained while creating models. It had it's purpose but it is no longer needed. Google has already stated that old content is only replaced where new content is introduced. They can't say where new content will appear because this is probably one of the areas Google will need to compete with Apple.

Google maps is about an accurate representation of the real world. That means that auto generated content will closer represent the real world then artists interpretation of the real world. I think very few people will have any interest in looking at the old content once the new stuff is in place. You need to realize this new technology doesn't just show buildings, it shows all elevation data in exquisite detail. Retaining walls, viaducts, bridges and on-ramps. I can not think of a reason why I would want to go back to the old low resolution elevation data with buildings floating above it or extruded into it. It was an approximation of the real world at best and it has now been replaced with better technology.

I suspect Google is holding out on us about how good this technology is. The presentation showed 3D models on par with what C3 has had for over a year. I can not help but wonder what super feature has not been talked about. We will probably hear about it after Apples announcements. This is all speculation of course. But with Google putting emphasis on business locations and advertising in maps, you would need detailed streetlevel information that is seamless. Although denied in this thread by Graig, I still suspect streetview images will play a role with the photogrametry generated content.

Getting the earth modeled to this point has taken many years. And although buildings tend to stick around for many years, 3D building data does age and does need to be regenerated. I trust annual 3D snapshots of a city much more then user generated content produced haphazardly over many years.

Sebastian S.

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Jun 7, 2012, 7:32:58 PM6/7/12
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 'old low resolution elevation data with buildings floating above it/user generated content produced haphazardly' ??? Do you really know what you're talking about?? I hardly doubt that those auto generated models will be better than the Saint Basil's Cathedral of Arrigo Silva or one of the many stadiums of Athinaios or the Brooklyn Bridge of Gllerimo (and many other models if you still not convinced about the amazing work of some modellers)!
 
Maybe you should first think about the work that goes into such models before you talk that disrespectful about the passion of many people who poured their heart and their time into those models!
 
Thanks!

Oliver Davis

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Jun 7, 2012, 8:18:58 PM6/7/12
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It appears that you have deep insight into the new technology ('You need to realize this new technology doesn't just show buildings, it shows all elevation data in exquisite detail. Retaining walls, viaducts, bridges and on-ramps') that no one else has so please share more Paul.

Many people on this distribution are not 'artists' but draftspeople and production oriented with real clients who want to keep using their models for purposes other than promoting a business in 3D on a map. We also work with artists who happen to be some of the best modelers. Plus, artists are cool

The reality for this group is the following:

1- If you like modeling, keep using SketchUp. Sell your modeling services to those with a clear need (construction, architecture, civil engineering, many others). Embrace Trimble as a partner, they will likely offer professional modelers more support and new features than Google could and the product will only improve.

2- If you want to sell geo services, focus on selling other media that work well in mobile and doesn't require plug-ins.Think Streetview, think rendered/custom maps ( i.e. hbs.edu/maps). Also learn maps or find a friend who can code while you add content.

3 - Don't be over dependent on a single solution and don't assume anything. Always look for ways to do things better and different. Believe it or not, Google and Apple don't always have all of the answers or the best solutions. They want to get better and always look for new ways.

If anyone believes that this news is the end of their business, then they are quitting. SketchUp is here to stay.  There's more to do and a large market to go after. Don't force/BS your value proposition (i.e. Google Earth models will help you market your business because they are 3D - really?). Sell the services that match the customer need and keep modeling. It will work out.


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Paul van Dinther

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Jun 7, 2012, 8:46:12 PM6/7/12
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Maybe my comments need clarification. First of all, it is my no means my intention to put down the amazing models that have been submitted and published in Google Earth. Yes, there is a lot of detail but at the same time, for what purpose?
Many models are despite the careful efforts still heavy weights and a modest mobile device simply can't render a dense city full of user supplied content. I know how easy it is to over do the geometry on a 3D model. I made many.

But the 3D model is rarely seated properly on uneven terrain due to poor elevation detail.

Secondly, aerial photography is never perfect and on the edges of a photo you can always see the sides of buildings. It is impossible to place a building on that location and not see building imagery show from under the building. Some modelers produce fake surfaces to hide this fact but only add more trouble once the next photo update is applied and the model ground remains old.

I know of many cases where the modeler re-uses textures to keep the model size down and inadvertently mis-represents the real building. The Googleplex is an example where certain sides of the building have the incorrect number of windows.

I referred to modelers as artists because I know how much skill it takes to turn a collection of photographs into color balanced 3D models. I have had the pleasure to experience the work from PeterG ( San sebastian and Getaria ) up close and there is an amazing amount of work going into this process. Peter deserved to win the last modeling competition.

I have no inside knowledge of what Google is up to but I work exclusively with Google's mapping technology for the last few years. It is important for my business to keep tabs on what is going on in this space. My site might me familiar. www.planetinaction.com

Anyone can have a live preview of what the Google technology might look like. There used to be a Nokia beta site that is broken since the Google Announcement last night but here is a site that is a lesser quality web-gl based that still works. Zoom in to any city and marvel at the elevation detail. http://maps3d.svc.nokia.com/webgl/index.html

Zoungy Kligge

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Jun 7, 2012, 9:05:00 PM6/7/12
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Some thoughts on handmade vs auto in a blog post-- it's a model I've been working on, but should I keep going? I dunno....


Zoungy

Michael Parkin

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Jun 7, 2012, 9:10:55 PM6/7/12
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Paul...

I work at a large university and we've put some considerable time and energy into these models (along with other schools and campus based organizations).  We use this for emergency management, operations, strategic planning, construction...etc.  A lot of this is because of the detail we've committed to putting into these models...and it's also because we've committed time and energy into maintaining this information.  Our models are based on actual measurements and construction documentation...which is much better than any remotely sensed information. For us, we've been contributing to this environment and have been making it part of how we do business...but that is now that's all going to change because the rug is getting pulled out on us.  It's a shame.  Damn shame.

I guess we're going to have to find another solution...but in reading this thread...I also have a lot of concerns with what is going to happen with user generated content that's already up there.  Our models are marked as private so others can't manipulate them..and so far Craig has dodged questions about existing models.  Any idea what's happening to them?  When our models are replaced with this new fabric..I'm hoping Google isn't going to repurpose them for other initiatives.  That's not what we signed up for.  We also didn't sign up for having them sell them and make profit off of our work.

Man...words can't begin to express my frustration right now..

Michael Parkin

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Jun 7, 2012, 9:21:43 PM6/7/12
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Craig...I work at a large university and we have put a lot of time and energy into our models.  We use the GE environment a lot for our operations and planning...mostly because the highly detailed (and timely) content.  I know of other schools that have done this because we've found this platform very useful.

Since it seems like you're getting out of the business of using user generated content...what is going to happen to our actual models that we've posted in GE?  Schools have spent time and $$ to contribute to this environment...

Mike

Richard Pedicini

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Jun 7, 2012, 9:31:27 PM6/7/12
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On the integration of hand models to mesh, alignment is not a trivial problem. I attended a geomapping conference in São Paulo last week, and part of the technology for aligning the Brazilian Army's ongoing photomapping of the Amazon is people tramping into the jungle with triangular aluminum radar-reflectors. And this is, mind you, with GPS-equipped aircraft taking the photos. Also, the Gol 1907 midaircollision over the Amazon in 2006 was caused, in part, by the air traffic controller being distracted from civilian aviation to control a plane on a military mapping flight. People have died for alignment, in that case 154 of them.

So just dropping hand-crafted models into the mesh, is not easily done, and that's not just a Google problem. Alignment is a headache for everyone.

There was a video at the conference showing new possibilities. A downtown area with all the buildings - Los Angeles, I think - but also with tunnels, subways, water and gas mains ... all the subterranean infrastructure. Aligning all that with hand-built models?

There were also some breathtaking models done with point-clouds. Not merely the buildings, but the shrubbery, overhead electric wiring, street signs, etc. Who's going to model that? Sure, it took 25 minutes to scan, and 10.5 million points, but technology gets better. There was a time when a 35k image file was a major challenge for a PC.

Regarding the complaints that the mesh doesn't have tags. There's money in tags. A way will be found to attach them.

On the roll-out for mobile, as I recall from the conference, more than half of map consultation is now via mobile devices. (I don't recall the percent, my editors only care about things with wings on). That's where the market is going, and that's why the new technology is going there first. The desktop Google Earth 3D layer may not die, but merely fade away.

Without any desire to disparage the efforts of the Google Guides to soothe modelers during an obviously difficult transition, they ought to be aware that, when attempting to smooth the feathers of Brazilian contributors, saying something is "beautiful" is the traditional idiom here for "nice, but not useful". Embarrassingly correct in this situation, so it might be best to pick a different form of praise for contributors from this part of the world.

This does not come as a particular surprise, except for the timing. And the failure to be modifiable to include hand models, but after last weeks' conference that is less a surprise than it would have been a few weeks ago.

It would be really nice to know when different areas will be covered, but I suppose Google's competitors would love to have that information too, so I don't see how that can be shared here.

I do have one question for the Google Guides: Were the hand models used in any way to test and refine the new technology? Was the atumatic technology ever tested against good hand models to see how well it was succeeding?

Cheers,
Richard


On Wednesday, June 6, 2012 3:06:05 PM UTC-3, CraigD - Google wrote:
Today, we provided a preview of some changes that are coming to the 3D landscape in Google Earth, starting on mobile devices. Later this summer, we’ll unveil a new way of displaying 3D buildings on Google Earth for mobile, achieved by building complete cityscapes from the 45-degree aerial imagery used in Google Maps and Building Maker.

One of the biggest challenges in showing 3D buildings in Google Earth has been gathering complete 3D coverage to represent the real world seamlessly and consistently. For example, many areas in Google Earth have specific buildings and landmarks in 3D where they are available, but the surrounding area is flattened out and only available in two dimensions.

New imagery rendering and computer vision techniques now allow us to create an accurate and comprehensive 3D representation of entire metropolitan areas. But we recognize this impacts our amazing geo modeling community. In the select areas where it will launch, the 3D Buildings layer on mobile and tablet devices will display only the new automatically generated 3D imagery. Manually modeled 3D buildings from both our users and own team will continue to appear everywhere else, as well as on desktop versions of Google Earth for now. As we expand our ability to provide comprehensive 3D buildings and terrain for entire cities and regions, we know this raises questions for anyone who has modeled for Google Earth.

What is going to happen to the buildings in Google Earth that I’ve modeled?
When we release the new 3D imagery in select regions later this summer, any models you’ve previously created in the areas covered by the new 3D imagery will no longer appear in Google Earth for mobile. Your models will remain available in the 3D Warehouse and continue to inform the 3D models in Google Maps.

What about Building Maker models?
Building Maker is a useful tool irregardless of the eligibility for those models to appear in the 3D Building layer in Google Earth. It's a great way to start a dimensionally accurate, aerially textured model for SketchUp, and useful for creating context models for SketchUp scenes. Building Maker will continue to be available for these purposes.

What about SketchUp models?
In the regions where the new 3D imagery is available, we will no longer publish the 3D Buildings layer in Google Earth for mobile. However, we anticipate that there will be many parts of the globe that will take some time to expand to with this new type of 3D imagery, or never be able to reach at all. In those regions, user contributed models will still be important for providing a complete picture of the 3D landscape. User contributed 3D buildings may also continue to help inform the 3D buildings on Maps.

Why is my model being replaced by something with less geometric detail?
In some cases, the close-up work done by individual modelers may be more detailed than the current model created by the new 3D imagery techniques. Those detailed and beautifully textured models will of course continue to be available in the 3D Warehouse, and we appreciate you letting us share your model in Google Earth to date to provide a representation of the world in three dimensions.

However, using aerial imagery to create 3D models enables us to keep these 3D versions of the world more accurate and up-to-date than is possible with manually created models. In addition, the new 3D buildings and terrain are all generated from the same high resolution aerial imagery, enabling precise alignment of the new models and a seamless 3D experience across an entire area. In an effort to create an accurate, consistent, and more complete 3D representation of the Earth, we are replacing all existing models with the new 3D imagery and will continue working to improve them over time.

WiIl I still be able to submit buildings to Google Earth?
We are thrilled by the commitment shown by users contributing 3D buildings to Google Earth, and hope to continue working with these modelers from all over the world to accurately and realistically represent areas where the new 3D models are not able to be created. We encourage you to submit your models for areas where we have not released new 3D imagery.

How will I know if my models are going to be affected?
We are currently exploring ways to inform you about changes to the places where your model appears.

So what does this mean for the future of 3D in Google Earth?
As mentioned above, there are many areas that will remain unaffected by the initial release of new 3D imagery on Google Earth for mobile, and will continue to display user contributed 3D models. For modelers who would still like to publish SketchUp models for clients, you can create your own instance of Google Earth via the plugin using the Google Earth API, which enables you to publish 3D content on the web to share with clients or the general public.

Our goal remains to create an accurate, consistent and comprehensive 3D representation of the Earth. With 3D imagery in its infancy, we can’t truly see what the future holds; but the one constant in this fast-paced, high-tech world is change, and further improvements are ahead.
 

On Wednesday, June 6, 2012 3:06:05 PM UTC-3, CraigD - Google wrote:
Today, we provided a preview of some changes that are coming to the 3D landscape in Google Earth, starting on mobile devices. Later this summer, we’ll unveil a new way of displaying 3D buildings on Google Earth for mobile, achieved by building complete cityscapes from the 45-degree aerial imagery used in Google Maps and Building Maker.

One of the biggest challenges in showing 3D buildings in Google Earth has been gathering complete 3D coverage to represent the real world seamlessly and consistently. For example, many areas in Google Earth have specific buildings and landmarks in 3D where they are available, but the surrounding area is flattened out and only available in two dimensions.

New imagery rendering and computer vision techniques now allow us to create an accurate and comprehensive 3D representation of entire metropolitan areas. But we recognize this impacts our amazing geo modeling community. In the select areas where it will launch, the 3D Buildings layer on mobile and tablet devices will display only the new automatically generated 3D imagery. Manually modeled 3D buildings from both our users and own team will continue to appear everywhere else, as well as on desktop versions of Google Earth for now. As we expand our ability to provide comprehensive 3D buildings and terrain for entire cities and regions, we know this raises questions for anyone who has modeled for Google Earth.

What is going to happen to the buildings in Google Earth that I’ve modeled?
When we release the new 3D imagery in select regions later this summer, any models you’ve previously created in the areas covered by the new 3D imagery will no longer appear in Google Earth for mobile. Your models will remain available in the 3D Warehouse and continue to inform the 3D models in Google Maps.

What about Building Maker models?
Building Maker is a useful tool irregardless of the eligibility for those models to appear in the 3D Building layer in Google Earth. It's a great way to start a dimensionally accurate, aerially textured model for SketchUp, and useful for creating context models for SketchUp scenes. Building Maker will continue to be available for these purposes.

What about SketchUp models?
In the regions where the new 3D imagery is available, we will no longer publish the 3D Buildings layer in Google Earth for mobile. However, we anticipate that there will be many parts of the globe that will take some time to expand to with this new type of 3D imagery, or never be able to reach at all. In those regions, user contributed models will still be important for providing a complete picture of the 3D landscape. User contributed 3D buildings may also continue to help inform the 3D buildings on Maps.

Why is my model being replaced by something with less geometric detail?
In some cases, the close-up work done by individual modelers may be more detailed than the current model created by the new 3D imagery techniques. Those detailed and beautifully textured models will of course continue to be available in the 3D Warehouse, and we appreciate you letting us share your model in Google Earth to date to provide a representation of the world in three dimensions.

However, using aerial imagery to create 3D models enables us to keep these 3D versions of the world more accurate and up-to-date than is possible with manually created models. In addition, the new 3D buildings and terrain are all generated from the same high resolution aerial imagery, enabling precise alignment of the new models and a seamless 3D experience across an entire area. In an effort to create an accurate, consistent, and more complete 3D representation of the Earth, we are replacing all existing models with the new 3D imagery and will continue working to improve them over time.

WiIl I still be able to submit buildings to Google Earth?
We are thrilled by the commitment shown by users contributing 3D buildings to Google Earth, and hope to continue working with these modelers from all over the world to accurately and realistically represent areas where the new 3D models are not able to be created. We encourage you to submit your models for areas where we have not released new 3D imagery.

How will I know if my models are going to be affected?
We are currently exploring ways to inform you about changes to the places where your model appears.

So what does this mean for the future of 3D in Google Earth?
As mentioned above, there are many areas that will remain unaffected by the initial release of new 3D imagery on Google Earth for mobile, and will continue to display user contributed 3D models. For modelers who would still like to publish SketchUp models for clients, you can create your own instance of Google Earth via the plugin using the Google Earth API, which enables you to publish 3D content on the web to share with clients or the general public.

Our goal remains to create an accurate, consistent and comprehensive 3D representation of the Earth. With 3D imagery in its infancy, we can’t truly see what the future holds; but the one constant in this fast-paced, high-tech world is change, and further improvements are ahead.
 

Michael Parkin

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Jun 7, 2012, 9:58:05 PM6/7/12
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Oh...and also wanted to point out...building lean is an issue because of the way Google is sourcing imagery now.  Imagery from state/local sources minimize building lean and they do it by writing it into their flyover specs.  For our aerials, our specs make sure we don't have any building lean because we have them produce DTMs from the buildings as well as the ground (we have some 30 story buildings, too).  When Google was using publicly sourced imagery...this type of imagery was captured and based on standards (and done by certified photogrammetrists).  Since our imagery was in that data set...it met our specs for a while, but once they started sourcing their own imagery (with their own specs)..things started to fall out of alignment.  Now they 'got their own planes' and are using whatever techniques they can to map the world...which is fine, but it won't be as tight it used to be because they are mapping larger areas...so for us, it might not work out anymore..and for you, you'll see building roofs in the middle of streets and you can't place your model..

BUT...then again..this a moot point because you won't be able to place your model in GE anymore.  :0)


On Thursday, June 7, 2012 8:46:12 PM UTC-4, Paul van Dinther wrote:

pmolsen

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Jun 7, 2012, 10:00:58 PM6/7/12
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Even the keenest modelers would have to admit that the overall look of the sort of technology shown on the Nokia web site (see below) is far superior to what our combined efforts have been able to achieve. 

It cannot compete at the fine detail level with a Sketchup model of something like the Eiffel Tower, and nor will Google's new stuff, but from a distance with the complete landscape modeled it looks great.

It would have been nice if Google had seen fit to provide an option to fade out their mesh and fade in selected ones of our buildings when the user zoomed in very close, or clicked on an individual area, but unfortunately that was not to be.

From a money point of view we weren't paid by Google but we also didn't generate a lot of income for them.  

Jean Demers

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Jun 7, 2012, 10:17:25 PM6/7/12
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I do understand that mixing hand made models with mesh layer is hardly feasable. Of course I won't miss the so called "gargage models" but what about masterpieces such as Saint Basil's Cathedral, Golden Gate, Versailles and hundreds or thousands other models?
I think, like many others mentioned, the hand made models layer should still be available like it is actually for the "grey cubes" layer.
It should not cost that much since hand made models repository must be maintened for non mesh areas.

Jean

pmolsen

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Jun 7, 2012, 11:11:26 PM6/7/12
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Ok so it will cost a small amount to maintain. Just call it a deferred payment to the modelers who have probably spent a combined million or so hours improving Google Earth, the sole reward in most cases being seeing their models showcased for others to admire. 

Surely Google has not yet reached the Microsoft stage of"profit at all costs" and just trample on the end user.

Paul van Dinther

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Jun 8, 2012, 12:08:26 AM6/8/12
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It is not true that you can not bring models into Google Earth. Various sources have confirmed that model import via KML and I expect via the API will remain possible. Google also said that the collada format continues to be supported.

So, there is no reason your models can not be loaded into Google Earth. The only limitation is, nobody else will see them unless they load your kml file or visit your web-page containing the API code to load the models. My diorama system is based on this very principle and it will continue to function.

However, the new system looks like a continuous mesh. Ground, buildings, it is all the same surface. So you can't simply turn off the building layer. I wonder if and how Google plans to deal with that. 

Maybe it will be possible to turn off the photogrametry and have SRTM elevation data instead.

Another thought is that Google might consider to keep a small selection of the very finest land-marks as a separate layer. But again, a nice token to the creators but I expect virtually nobody will ever look at it.

pmolsen

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Jun 8, 2012, 3:09:04 AM6/8/12
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So what is the "Next Dimension" for us poor forgotten modelers? Perhaps "Google Interiors":


Craig, do you have any insider information that may give us optimism please...?

4throck

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Jun 8, 2012, 5:20:14 AM6/8/12
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Clickable buildings were the only thing that really mattered. Remove that and Google Earth becomes irrelevant.
Lets hope that our new friends Trimble realize this and retain this functionality along with the 3D warehouse.

Nevertheless, some other business will do it sooner or latter. Our detailed 3D models to well inside a FPS gaming engine. And yes, you can use that to visit interiors.
Change is hard but it's time to start doing something new :-)
Message has been deleted

washi

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Jun 8, 2012, 8:19:00 AM6/8/12
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Speaking only as a frequent user of the hand-made models available in Google Earth (I've never had a model in the 3D Warehouse accepted for use), I hope the old models will continue to be available to those of us who want to use them.  I lack the technical knowledge to know if it's actually feasible, but it seems to me that the 3D Buildings Layer ought to be able to be retrieved as a non-"built in" option through the Google Earth Gallery, for those of us who wish to continue to use them.  If that venue is not workable, perhaps some similar option can be concocted.

It breaks my heart, Ishii san, to see all your hard work so lightly tossed away!

matthiasbasler

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Jun 8, 2012, 11:50:54 AM6/8/12
to 3D Modeling for Google Earth & Maps
On 7 Jun., 19:06, SnowTiger <snowti...@modelstoglobe.com> wrote:
> Although, I'm guessing Canada will have to wait another 10 years to
> experience any of it because we're always sucking the hind teet when it
> comes to this stuff (it seems).
> [...]
> I'm going to have to completely rethink what I am doing and trying to do
> etc (from a business perspective) [...]

Well, with ten years ahead of you I wouldn't worry :-)

Just yesterday I arrived at the guess that Weißenburg (17'500
inhabitants, Germany) has probably another 8 years ahead until there
will be a 3D mesh available. Which means that I will have the town
centre completed *before* there is no more need to. ;-)
(Estimated time of completion: 2014/15)

Matthias Basler

matthiasbasler

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Jun 8, 2012, 12:09:28 PM6/8/12
to 3D Modeling for Google Earth & Maps
On 8 Jun., 00:47, "Sebastian S." <sebastian.strittmat...@gmx.net>
wrote:
> But I don't understand why it has to be one of those two 'versions', why
> can't both versions not be compined?

That's EXACTLY the point. Technically they old and new 3D layer could
be provided side by side, at least in a future Google Earth version.
Its just a question of money to maintain and update two 3D layers and
maintain the high number of 3D building reviewers. Since Google is a
company and thus primarily wants to make money I have not much hope
they will make this concession to us. (Google, please prove me wrong!)

Matthias Basler

r a e m e n n

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Jun 8, 2012, 12:10:02 PM6/8/12
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I've only made models with the intent of 'winning' or earning more badges, and to help myself fall asleep. Once my models are replaced by the mesh, I assume that the number of models accounted for and represented with my badges on my warehouse profile will be reduced to zero at some point. 

I've taken a screenshot of my badges, but that feels like cheating, I could have just p-shopped it (sadly, I feel as though I should have years ago). Is there some way to add another element to the 3D warehouse user profile that lists how many models were replaced by the mesh?

I also agree that no matter what the cost, a layer with our legacy efforts as modelers should be available on Google Earth. There's a layer for almost everything, i don't think profit or science has been a driving force for some of those layers.

I'm just happy to have broken 1,000 uploaded before the sky fell. Thanks for all the good times... RIP

Cox, David

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Jun 8, 2012, 12:09:53 PM6/8/12
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It looks like neither of those locations have the 45 degree aerial imagery, so I think you should be okay for a while I would guess. My city of Davenport, Iowa already has the oblique imagery done so I figure I'm on borrowed time. So I'm on death row.

edu

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Jun 8, 2012, 12:51:56 PM6/8/12
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Hi CraigD,

when google tell us wich cities will appears in the new 3d mode? thx

matthiasbasler

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Jun 8, 2012, 1:02:57 PM6/8/12
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On 8 Jun., 03:31, Richard Pedicini <richard.pedic...@gmail.com> wrote:
> The desktop Google Earth 3D layer may not die, but merely fade away.

Being a "desktop centric person" without one single smartphone I
suddenly feel so old and outdated ...

Well, if people prefer watching 3D worlds on 4" displays instead of
20" widescreen, it's their problem. I believe I have more fun on a
large screen.
:-)

Matthias Basler

CraigD - Google

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Jun 8, 2012, 2:08:31 PM6/8/12
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Hi Michael, I can only imagine your frustration at this news.  We knew that this decision was going to be difficult news to take and would have repercussions to the modelers we know and admire.  Similar to what Oliver says in his post, I believe that as technology changes, people's methods and businesses must change as well, and sometimes drastically.  We wouldn't be doing our job if we didn't push the technology into the future.  My hope is that folks like you can adapt and find new interesting and lucrative methods to use Google Earth, Maps and Mobile Maps in ways we haven't even imagined yet.

Regarding dodging questions about existing models, please reiterate the questions you have and I'll do my best to answer them. :)

Also, in this link, you'll see our previous announcement regarding 3D Warehouse models and the transfer of licensing from Google to Trimble, and here is the link to the Google 3D Warehouse terms of service to review.  You can see what rights you and Google and Trimble share with regards to your models. 

With regards to imagery, we will continue to improve our photogrammetry and aerial photography methods with an eye towards improved quality and accuracy.  So I would expect improvements across the board with our development and use of technology. 

This information is meant to share with you what I can at the moment and as this was a preview you can expect more information to come in the near future.

Cheers,

    - CraigD

profedetecno

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Jun 8, 2012, 2:23:35 PM6/8/12
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Tras mucho leer en este post llego a la conclusión que ha llegado el fin de la era de modelar edificios en 3d para google earth. Tarde o temprano este hobby desaparecera. Personalmente me entristece bastante ya que era una buena motivación para introducir a mis alumnos en el mundo del diseño 3d. Entiendo que los tiempos cambian y la tecnología evoluciona me cuesta aceptar que los acontecimientos de Trimble no tienen nada que ver. Personalmente creo que no hay mas que hablar. Me despido de google e intentare mostrar otros aspectos de sketchup a mis alumnos. Ha sido interesante mientras duró. Suerte  a los demás.

CraigD - Google

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Jun 8, 2012, 3:55:55 PM6/8/12
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Hi  r a e m e n n, 

we are still working on ideas around notification for models that have been replaced with 3D imagery models, so there will be more information on that as we work it all out.

As far as cost not being an object to keeping the existing 3D Buildings layer around, it's much more complicated than I think most people realize.  It's not just the cost of hosting the models as is...there is a tremendous amount of time and resources involved in the initial review of the models, comparison review of multiple models in one location, deep delving into appeals models, reviewing reported inaccurate models, then the internal process of updating the layer, with testing , and then publishing the layer on a weekly basis, so this is not at all for free.  Plus these are the same resources that will now be working on the 3D imagery cities, so there's a business decision on how we work on everything that goes into Google Earth.  It's a little bit like the analogy of replacing the family car. Do you: A) continuing to spend money fixing/repairing an older car, B) buying a new car with new reliability, better gas mileage and safety features, or C) buying a brand new car AND continuing to spend money maintaining an older car.   I don't mean to trivialize the decisions with my analogy, but when time and resources are limited, and yes we have to think about that here at Google just like in any other company, it's very difficult to choose an option "C".

I hope that makes sense.

Cheers,

     - CraigD

CraigD - Google

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Jun 8, 2012, 4:03:11 PM6/8/12
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Hi edu, 

Just like Building Maker cities and 45 degree imagery updates in the past, our policy is that we do not publish planned updates to the data.

Thanks,

     - CraigD

CraigD - Google

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Jun 8, 2012, 4:48:12 PM6/8/12
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Hi Richard, I found your post interesting. Thanks for sharing. I will also try to avoid using "beautiful" to describe people's work, thanks for that information.

To answer your questions:

As you already stated, we do not publish our plans for upcoming cities.

We did not use User Contributed Models to test against the 3D imagery cities. It's a difficult proposition to do this, and would have required all kinds of hand tuning to get the terrain correct as a base and then to locate a UGC model at that location.

Thanks for you post and your questions.

Cheers,

     - CraigD


CraigD - Google

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Jun 8, 2012, 4:58:21 PM6/8/12
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Hello profedetecno, I understand your disappointment. Also, and as I've said in other posts, this change in technology has nothing to do with the sale of SketchUp to Trimble.  We've been using Building Maker to create 3D cities for years, so we weren't relying on SketchUp for our large city projects.  Trimble is a great company and is a wonderful new home to SketchUp and all my dear friends there, so I really look forward to great things from them! :)

Cheers,

      - CraigD

Richard Pedicini

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Jun 8, 2012, 5:40:55 PM6/8/12
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Fleeing larger cities ahead of the advancing wave of mesh has been discussed as a strategy. I know that a lot of my models will be among the first to go, since they're in Hollywood, CA, which is just the sort of urban area high on the list. I also noticed when modeling that doing the Walk of Fame, streetlights, and palm trees improved the effect enormously, and this is the sort of detail that will now be included everywhere.

Another refuge I haven't seen addressed, is not in space but in time, that is, historic reconstruction. Google already provides historic images in the map layer, necessarily only for the fairly recent past given the lack of, say, 17th century aerial photos. There are already some impressive modeling projects such as the Roman Forum.

There is interest in seeing the Rome of Caesars, or Shakespeare's or Sherlock Holmes's London. There is no way to automatically generate that from aerial photos, unless Google is developing a time machine, which of course company policy does not permit Craig to comment on.

That raises the inverse question of integrating the 3D mesh with hand models. Not for Shakespeare or Marcus Aurelius, of course, but much of London is not that different from when Conan Doyle walked its streets. Would there be a way to selectively import buildings from the mesh, and model only buildings that have been replaced in the last century?

Someone (StrayKat?) pointed out that what purchasers sought in her models was an idealized version of buildings, where the paint was fresh and the stairs weren't crooked. Nostalgia provides the same rose-tinted lens, so perhaps the world as it once was, or at least ought to have been, will continue to provide a showcase for Sketchup models that automation cannot replace.

 - Richard

StrayKatStudio

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Jun 8, 2012, 6:05:08 PM6/8/12
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Wow.
I feel a little bad for modelers, but I'm torn.  It's like feeling sad for painters because someone invented the camera.  And I never thought my models would last forever, so that part is alright.  Onwards and upwards.  Goodbye to floating models, good riddance to Building Maker bad texturing, and no more modeling on bumpy terrain.
Although, yes, this does create some interesting business situations for me that I'll need to untangle, including a $3,000 modeling contract from last month, but I always have my hands in more than one pot, so financially, I'll be fine.
Craig, this must be quite the adjustment for you personally as well, I hope the Geo-modeling staff there at Google are adapting alright.

Cool?
In the end, my biggest concern is just a matter of Coolness.  Sure, the stereoscopic SF looks "cooler" from 700 feet than UGC SF... but what about at ground level?  I had a post long ago showing how grossly melty the C3 buildings are, close up.

My only disappointment.
Stereoscopic web-mesh just isn't as accurate as LiDAR.  If "my" models are going to be replaced, I just kinda hoped that it would be with ground-based scanning, converted into SketchUp models and new terrain via some kind of integration software like what Pointools/Berkeley has going on.
I don't mind my work being replaced.  It only hurts to be replaced by something low-quality. I know, I know, Stereoscopic's ROI ratio is awesome, way faster and cheaper than LiDAR.  Still.  (Pout)

Hope:
So here's my hope.  I hope that Google will still allow people to do some GE editing.  To unmelt the trees from the streets, for example, or straighten out what will likely be wobbly-looking buildings.
I hope that someday my dream of real-world-based online video games on Google Earth will still come true.  It just seemed to make sense.  Maybe Google just isn't looking that far forward in their rush to beat Apple. Instead of owning the game and reinventing the rules, it just looks like Google is following someone else's play.  I guess time will tell whether or not that was a good strategy.

Peter Olsen

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Jun 8, 2012, 6:17:05 PM6/8/12
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How do you pull up the 45 degree imagery? I just went to both San Francisco
and Los Angeles, which I would assume have it, and both had the option
greyed out.

Zoungy Kligge

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Jun 8, 2012, 10:26:20 PM6/8/12
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pmolsen try zooming in closer. it switches automatically for me

SnowTiger

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Jun 9, 2012, 10:27:48 AM6/9/12
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@Matthias

"Being a "desktop centric person" without one single smartphone I
suddenly feel so old and outdated ..."

I know exactly how you feel. I'm in the same boat.

pmolsen

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Jun 9, 2012, 5:13:59 PM6/9/12
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It switches automatically from map view to Streetview when I zoom in. It does not switch to 45 degree view and 45 degree photos remain greyed out. (San Francisco).

2k10

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Jun 9, 2012, 7:19:07 PM6/9/12
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You have to be in satellite mode to switch to 45º view. Here you have a link to the aerial view: http://goo.gl/maps/OieM

Zoungy Kligge

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Jun 10, 2012, 1:43:57 PM6/10/12
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Craig-- it would be cool/interesting how this might be a solution for organic-shaped man made sites like Mount Rushmore-- I wonder what kind of results could be produced, making a seamless mountain terrain/monument with this technology and if Google is considering this for similar sites around the world?

Jean Demers

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Jun 10, 2012, 2:28:06 PM6/10/12
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Ok, let's face the reality: Google drops hand made 3D models for populating the 3D layer in Google Earth. It is a business decision and it is legitimate.

What? Masterpieces will disapear from GE? People enjoy modeling and want proudly show the result in GE to the world?

Google said that one raison to not maintain hand made 3D layer is the resources needed for initial reviews and appeals. Maybe it is time for the modelers' community to take its destiny in its own hands!

Like wikipiedia, why not let manage the selection of the models by the community itself? Google Earth already cooperates with many projects such as wikipedia, wikiloc, gigapan, youtube, etc. that show their layers on the map. Why not a Wiki-Building-3D? Maybe it is possible to get some collaboration with other resources such as Wikimedia Commons...

The community could do three things: define and maintain the selection criteria (that will make happy many peoples ;) accept models and deal with appeals. Let's divide the whole Earth many areas to share the tasks among multiple evaluators...

Well, many issues will come up: the process of updating and publishing HM layer for example... That can hardly be done by the community without external resources... But nothing can't be solved... :)

Yes, this is a crazy idea...

Jean


Gravitar

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Jun 10, 2012, 7:06:43 PM6/10/12
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That is an awesome idea! I would really want to be apart of this!

Doug

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Jun 10, 2012, 9:40:00 PM6/10/12
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I don't know if I want to wait for Google to start removing my buildings one by one or just delete them all now. I do know if I keep them, I will delete them en mass when Google starts removing them.

Question : Is Google going to change the badge system ? Even though they're fairly meaningless ,except for bragging rights, I would hate to see fewer badges every time that I login. It's depressing enough.

Since Google is eventually going to remove the models from GE, I'm really curious why Trimble bought SketchUp and the rights to our models. This is another reason why I want to delete my models.

I'll probably just hang in for awhile and see what happens but I personnel don't see any reason to make any new buildings.

TomHarvey

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Jun 11, 2012, 1:45:16 AM6/11/12
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Jean,

This idea came up a few years ago. I thought it was good then and I still do. I would be happy to be involved in the evaluation process.

Tom

4throck

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Jun 11, 2012, 5:07:40 AM6/11/12
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Only way to go might be to integrate 3D with Open Street Maps. Actually OSM is starting to replace payed solutions (such as Google Maps) in things like panorama viewers.
And also perhaps try to get the 3d models into the wiki commons.

matthiasbasler

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Jun 11, 2012, 1:10:25 PM6/11/12
to 3D Modeling for Google Earth & Maps
Jean wrote:

> Maybe it is time for the
> modelers' community to take its destiny in its own hands!

Thought about this myself more than once.
The obvious benefit are:
- is that a community driven project gives more freedom for licensing
for the modeller ... you may not automatically give away your model
for almost every purpose (including creating war games from them ...)
- we can have a different view on quality vs. quantity, we can have
different layers for high-/medium/low detail models, for example

The obvious problems are:
- Find someone providing the infrastructure and find sponsors to find
it.
- The project must gain enough acceptance to become useful. An earth
that's empty of 3D models except for half a dozen city is not useful.
- Project management tasks, such as voting on reviewers and such.

The not-so-obvious problems are:
- Have the platform to show the models. As long as Google Earth
supports loading custom 3D models even in areas that have the
autogenerated city models, things are maybe not ideal, but doable. But
what if, lets say, Google stops providing the elevation model to
SketchUp for such areas? Or you could not turn off the "new" buildings
and elevation model separately in order to load in own models? Who
knows how things will turn out.
- A diverse community which sure enough has equally diverse opinions
to the question what a "good" or "better" model is.
- Are you *really* willing to continue building models in areas once
you have seen Googles new models (Still in two years, when the
technique is advanced even further?)

I am pretty sure there are people from science, industry, governments
and public surveying offices out there who already played with the
thought of offering similar services like the 3D warehouse. Maybe they
take their chance now. I am waiting for invitations ;-)

Wiki commons is a good first idea. Maybe there are other wiki or wiki-
like systems out there more specialized in hosting models. Needs to be
investigated.

Anyway, you have my support.
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