Google has announced it will be shutting down a popular app in the next year, in a decision labelled "monumentally stupid" by users.
Google Earth Pro launched globally back in June 2005.
The app allows users to explore the globe using satellite imagery, 3D terrain models, and Geographic Information System data.
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We've recently added many our most powerful professional desktop features to web. Elevation profiles, new import types, but there's always been one other feature… pic.twitter.com/s11NDaCx60— Google Earth (@googleearth) June 12, 2026
Google Earth Pro app to be discontinued - see when
Now, after 21 years, Google is set to discontinue the Earth Pro app.
The Google Earth Pro app will no longer be available for download from June 25, 2027.
Users have been told they can continue using Google Earth Pro if it is already installed, but new downloads will not be possible after the cut-off date.
This decision comes as Google looks to focus instead on Google Earth on web and mobile (Android | iOS) and making it "the best place for people to get helpful geospatial insights".
Google has encouraged users to explore its web-based Earth platform, which it says includes the desktop app’s most popular features.
These include historical Street View, advanced measurement, and AI-powered capabilities.
Users call for Google to "reverse this decision"
The announcement that Google is discontinuing the Earth Pro app has not gone down well with users, with many labelling it a "monumentally stupid" idea.
One person, posting on the Google Earth Help website, said: "This is a terrible idea, please reverse it.
"Earth on web is absolutely not up to replacing Earth on desktop and mobile is not even in the same country code. REVERSE THIS DECISION."
Another user commented: "This is a monumentally stupid decision.
"Google Earth Pro desktop is an essential workflow tool for thousands of engineers, geoscientists, land planners and managers, mining companies, biologists, wildfire incident managers, etc.
"The Web tool is trash and not a replacement with feature parity.
"If you want to commercialize it, fine, many of us will gladly pay for such a powerful tool.
"Otherwise, please just release it on an open source license so we can maintain it in the community."
A third user added: "Earth Pro was my favourite app! Earth Web does not have feature parity with it!" This person added: "Worst decision ever ....why.....why ...why."
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