Summary: Google announced September 22 that the latest version of its SketchUp modeling software is now available both in the free download and the SketchUp Pro version. (SketchUp Pro 7.0 subscribers get a free upgrade to 7.1.)

New features in the 7.1 version include the ability to handle larger files and the ability to add photo textures to SketchUp models as well as find and insert nearby models from 3D Warehouse to give your site context. Users can upload components directly from 3D Warehouse, split large city models into individual buildings, and import and export open-standard 3D files in COLLADA, KMZ files, and CAD exchange model data (such as DXF, DWG, 3DS, OBJ, XSI, EPS, and PDF).

The SketchUp Pro 7.1 also features 2.1 version of LayOut.

For more information, visit the SketchUp Web site on 7.1 that includes a blog for your questions and comments.