Google announced that the Google Earth Pro version for computers will have its downloads discontinued on June 25, 2027. Despite this change, users who already have the software installed will be able to continue using it on their devices.
Google announced that the Google Earth Pro version for computers will have its downloads discontinued on June 25, 2027. Despite this change, users who already have the software installed will be able to continue using it on their devices.
The web and mobile versions of Google Earth will remain normally accessible. Google Earth, a three-dimensional geographical visualization platform of the Earth launched in 2005 after the acquisition of Keyhole (which had EarthViewer since 2001), was segmented into two categories. One is Google Earth, which operates via browser and mobile devices (Android and iOS), and the other is Google Earth Pro, the desktop edition compatible with Windows, macOS, or Linux.
Only the desktop version will be discontinued, while the standard Google Earth will be maintained indefinitely. A notice about the end of support was published on the help page and is also being displayed within the program itself. The official note states that although the Google Earth Pro application for computer can be used, it will no longer be available for new installations after June 25, 2027, recommending the use of the web and mobile platforms for the best experience.
The decision generated negative reactions, as pointed out in a Reddit thread, where a user mentioned that the web version of Google Earth does not present as much consistency as the Pro version in displaying attribute data. The exact reason for the shutdown was not revealed by Google, but one hypothesis raised is that the desktop version does not reach a sufficiently high user volume to justify its maintenance. The nearly one-year deadline allows users to find alternatives.
The company confirmed to Android Authority that, even after the deadline, Google Earth Pro will remain functional on computers where it is already installed. In addition to Earth, Google Earth also offers views of other celestial bodies, including the Moon and Mars.