Trimble releases SketchUp 2023.0
Trimble has released SketchUp 2023.0, the latest version of its architectural modelling software, also used by entertainment artists to rough out hard-surface assets, particularly when creating concept art.
The update iteratively improves modelling workflow, adding a new unified Flip tool; and adds support for referencing CAD files in DWG format to LayOut, SketchUp’s module for creating documentation.
Users with Studio subscriptions also get a new Revit importer.
SketchUp for iPad, the new iOS edition, available free to all users with commercial subscriptions, has also been updated. See what’s new in SketchUp for iPad 6.2 here.
Studio and Pro subscriptions: improved modelling workflow
New features in the desktop edition of SketchUp 2023.0 include a single unified Flip tool for mirroring geometry selections along orthogonal planes, replacing the old Flip Along commands.
There are also a number of smaller improvements to modelling workflow, including the option to remove faces or edges from a selection set, and to reposition the drawing axes by double-clicking.
Outside the core application, a new Overlays system lets SketchUp Extensions update dynamically while other tools or Extensions are in use.
At the time of writing, only four Extensions support it, but Trimble has released the API to enable other developers to integrate the functionality into their add-ons.
Studio and Pro subscriptions: reference DWG files in LayOut
Changes to LayOut, SketchUp’s module for generating 2D documentation from 3D models, include the option to use DWG files as references, previously only possible with images and SketchUp models.
Smaller workflow improvements include the option to set a custom starting angle when rotating objects, and further updates to Tags and Auto-Text.
Studio only: new Revit importer
Users with Studio subscriptions get a new Revit importer, to streamline the process of importing data from Autodesk’s BIM software.
SketchUp Pro and SketchUp Studio also now share a common installer on Windows, with users able to choose whether to install the additional features of Studio, including the new Revit importer.
Pricing and system requirements
SketchUp 2023.0 is available for Windows 10+ and macOS 11.0+ on a rental-only basis.
SketchUp Go subscriptions, which include the browser edition and SketchUp for iPad, cost $119/year.
SketchUp Pro and SketchUp Studio, which also include the desktop edition, LayOut and advanced features, cost $299/year and $699/year. See a feature comparison table for the three subscription plans.
There is also a free, feature-limited web-based edition of SketchUp, SketchUp Free.
Read an overview of the new features in SketchUp 2023.0 on Trimble’s blog
Read a full list of new features in SketchUp 2023.0 in the online changelog