Google announces the launch of Shapefile and 3D model import support on Google Earth; Elevation Profiles added to the measure tool

Yesterday, Google announced that it is expanding Google Earth’s data import capabilities to help users create a single source of truth for geospatial information. The company has announced support for two new data import types and new data in the measure tool.

Today, we’re thrilled to announce the launch of Shapefile and 3D model import support on Google Earth. Plus, we’ve also added elevation profiles to the measure tool just for… good measure! https://t.co/Lgtl2iS0Kf

You’ve made it clear. You want to be able to bring more of your… pic.twitter.com/eNrpvTQ98u

— Google Earth (@googleearth) April 28, 2026

Google Earth: New features

Google has expanded its data import capabilities so that users can now securely combine, style, visualise, and share their proprietary data directly in a Google Cloud-based map project.

Shapefiles

Google is expanding support beyond KML, KMZ, and GeoJSON to include Shapefiles. You can now upload a .zip file containing your shapefiles to render both the features and their associated attributes as performant, cloud-native data layers.

The shapefiles feature is essential for a real estate developer or urban planner who needs to import large-scale proprietary data like tax lot, infrastructure, or topographic data to evaluate a site’s suitability and find opportunities.

3D models

Upload, place, and share custom 3D models to see your designs or massings in a real-world context. Starting with support for the GLB file format, Google provides input fields that allow you to accurately position, scale, and rotate your models on the globe. This transforms Google Earth into an interactive stage for custom designs.

Elevation Profiles

Elevation Profile has been added to the measure tool. Simply draw with the measure tool as you always have and see a beautiful new elevation profile display in the inspector panel.

Whether you are tackling complex route and transportation planning, conducting viewshed analysis, or mapping out logistics for heavy machinery, you can now instantly contextualise terrain dips and peaks directly on the map.