Design anywhere, anytime with SketchUp for iPad!
SketchUp Free
The most intuitive architectural and interior modeling online program that allows you to implement your ideas.
For a 7-day trial
√ SketchUp browser version
√ Mobile application for project review
√ 3D Warehouse – Limited Options
√ Basic import and export files
Testing the iPad version of SketchUp
The maker of SketchUp, knowing how much of a positive change a tablet version would bring to the design process, created a tablet version. In order to test the functionality, get acquainted with the practical possibilities of application and become more familiar with the customer’s needs, the manufacturer selected the first volunteer testers. These individuals were able to test the product on the job.
The first phase tested the ability to go on location and sketch using the software on a tablet, while the second phase tested the ability to mark items, leave comments to team members and further develop processes on the computer. By reading below, you will learn more about the testing process and feedback.
Here are the comments from several testers:
I used the SketchUp software iPad app for several stages. First, I used it as a sketching tool. At this stage of refining the idea, the tool was very helpful as I could sketch using the tablet and extend the idea on the computer device as I developed the idea further, i.e. detailing. I also used markup mode and sketched directly in SketchUp’s 3D model environment using the Apple Pencil for the tablet. This has proven useful in meetings with clients, project managers, partners and consultants. Finally, the next step was a useful construction site. I used to have to meet clients in the office to discuss the details of the project, but now I don’t have to because we can discuss on site. It turned out to be smooth and fast.”
João Queiroz e Lima , architect at Casca
“I use SketchUp practically every day in the film industry. I currently use the iPad version and take ideas with me anywhere – on the train, on set, etc. In the past, before the iPad version, I used to sketch by hand and print out SketchUp scenes and mark the dimensions on a piece of paper by hand. Now I can do it on set with the director of the film. This helps to save a lot of concept development time – it takes about half a day less. By the way, I don’t lose space for 3D modeling on the tablet due to the conveniently arranged working environment. All menu tools are arranged in drop-down sections, which saves a lot of screen space for 3D modeling.”
Art director for the most famous films Luke Whitelock, IG: @lukewhitelockdesign
“I’m a software engineer by trade, but I use SketchUp software for my woodworking projects. I design everything from furniture to intricate bookshelves. With the iPad, I can work regardless of where I am. I can develop projects sitting at home on the couch with my wife. I am no longer addicted to the computer screen. It’s great to have this opportunity.”
Woodworking expert George Decherney
And now let’s meet exclusive tester Omar Calderon Santiago, Design Manager at Perkins Eastman . Perkins Eastman is an international architecture, interior design, urban design and planning, landscape, graphic design and project management firm. Omar is responsible for developing project concepts and prefers the SketchUp tool.
SketchUp gives you the opportunity to communicate your ideas to colleagues and clients. The Perkins Eastman Group is unique in that the work is done through the collaboration of several different design groups. This means that everyone works by joining the overall teamwork.”
How do you adapt the iPad version to your work?
“ We searched and experimented with the new tool in our workflow and realized that the possibilities are endless. I use the tool in the recovery stage of conception. In order to free the creative process, it is useful to have a tool that is simple and convenient. Having a tool similar to a piece of paper and a pencil, and SketchUp’s tablet version does just that.
My workflow usually starts with loading the terrain into the 3D environment. That way, I can start building at a realistic scale. I begin to create and form masses. This allows me and the team to understand the scale of the building and the context of the environment. Because from now on there is a seamless connection and integration between the desktop and tablet versions – I can use both tools seamlessly. “
The iPad version can also be used during the detailing phase of a project. For example, I can upload a photo or a plan of an object and bring up the volumes, then focus on the relevant part of the project and improve it.
I’m also happy to be able to easily load 3D models into a project from the 3D Warehouse 3D model library directly into my virtual project on the tablet. It helps speed up the workflow.”
What benefits have you found using SketchUp for iPad in your work?
” It was liberating. I like the mobility of the solution because I can create from anywhere. The last few years have brought a new approach to how we work and have given us the opportunity to work outside the office. Work should be easy to transport, and SketchUp for iPad is just that. “
To solve the most complex tasks during the concept development stage, you can use tools that facilitate the workflow. Why are SketchUp and the iPad a perfect (design) pair? Because:
- work does not tie you to the office desk, regardless of whether you are connected to the Internet or not;
- the creative process becomes easier, because 3D projects can be developed by hand and with the Apple Pencil;
- the ability to access 3D projects from anywhere;
- ability to share your ideas via AirDrop text, email mail or by synchronizing documents with your favorite storage application.
SketchUp for iPad also works well with other apps. With USDz’s export capability, you can create in 3D with SketchUp for iPad and draw or paint with a variety of other apps, including Procreate and Morpholio Trace.
Check out SketchUp for iPad.
F.A.Q
Can I try a SketchUp subscription before I buy it?
Yes indeed – download the latest version HERE and log in with your Trimble ID (TID) account to start your 7-day trial period. Remember, each person can only create one Trimble account.
Can I use the program on multiple computers at the same time after purchasing a SketchUp subscription?
A SketchUp subscription is tied to a specific user’s Trimble ID account, which allows you to activate the subscription on two computers at the same time. V-ray rendering would only work on one computer at a time.
Is it possible to upgrade my SketchUp Pro subscription to Studio?
An active SketchUp Pro subscription can be upgraded to Studio by paying the difference in price. You would have to pay extra only for the remaining days of the subscription, proportionally.
Can I have multiple Trimble accounts active on one computer?
Only one Trimble account can be active per computer. Changing computer users will require changing Trimble accounts. Individual profiles can be created in the 3D Warehouse environment independently of Trimble.
Do I need an internet connection to use my SketchUp subscription?
When you first activate your SketchUp subscription, you must have an Internet connection. Further, in order not to deactivate the account on a specific device, it is necessary to connect to the Internet once a month.
Will I still be able to access my SketcUp models after my subscription ends?
After the subscription ends, the editing features and services associated with it will no longer be available, but the models will be available with the free version of SketchUp Free.
What happens to all SketchUp plugins when my subscription ends?
As plugins are not available in the Free version of SketchUp, you will only be able to continue using them after you renew your subscription. Add-ons will remain in your paid subscription.
What happens to LayOut documents after the subscription expires?
LayOut will not work without an active subscription and the user will not be able to open or edit their LayOut documents. The user should remember to save them in time in older versions or in PDF format.
After my subscription ends, will I still be able to access my data from Trimble Connect?
At the end of the subscription, the Trimble Connect account will return to free mode, allowing the user to continue to use the 10 GB of allocated cloud space. Any data above the 10GB limit will be available in read-only format.
Can I transfer my SketchUp subscription to another Trimble user account?
Only in cases where the employee terminates the employment relationship, the account associated with him can be transferred to another account. To do this, please contact us.