Import 3D models (Experimental)

This product or feature is Experimental (pre-GA). Pre-GA products and features might have limited support, and changes to pre-GA products and features might not be compatible with other pre-GA versions. Pre-GA Offerings are covered by the Google Maps Platform Service Specific Terms. For more information, see the launch stage descriptions.

You can import your own 3D models into Google Earth projects. There are two ways to begin a 3D model import:

• From the main menu: Navigate to the top-level File menu and select Import file.
• From a project: Within a Google Earth project, click the + button in the Map contents panel and select the Import option.

You can choose to Import from Drive or Upload from device.

Note: As this is an experimental feature, some capabilities and model formats are limited.

Supported model formats and requirements

GLB is the only supported format for 3D model imports. Model formats like GLTF, COLLADA, and OBJ are not supported.

If your model is in a different format, we recommend exporting it as a GLB using tools such as Blender (open source), 3DS Max, Rhino 3D, or Tinkercad.

Referenced textures and GLB-based animations are not supported at this time. Including these may cause the model to render incorrectly or fail to import.

Storage and quota management

Imported models count toward your Google Earth storage quota. Each time you upload a model file, it counts as a separate item in your quota. You can view your current usage on the Google Earth home screen.

Note: Copying models is not supported within the same project and across multiple projects.

If an import causes you to exceed your storage limit, you enter an "over-quota" stage and can't import new models. To resolve this, upgrade your plan or delete existing imported content and projects.

Common issues and troubleshooting

Model renders differently from the source

If your model looks different in Google Earth than it does in its source application or viewer, it is likely due to one of the following:

• Metallic materials: Metallic objects may render incorrectly. This is a known issue.
• gITF extensions: There are numerous gITF extensions for material representations, such as specific textures or lighting effects, that are not currently supported in Google Earth.

Model does not appear to render

If you have successfully imported a file but cannot see the model in your project, it may be due to an incorrect scale in the original file.

Try adjusting the model's scale to 1000%. If the model becomes visible, it indicates the original file was exported at a scale too small for the Google Earth environment.

Export prevented

3D models are not supported in KML/KMZ export.