If you’ve been itching to try Google Earth 7 on Ubuntu, you’ll be pleased to hear that an updated version that will work is on the way.
The most recent update to the famous mapping app was released in late October 2012. It added an improved ‘tour guide’ feature, and 3D imagery previously only available via Android and iOS versions.
But as enticing as the new features are, the Linux build omitted a key one: the ability to work.
Google Earth’s ‘Caught Signal 11’
Mere minutes after its official release, the Google Earth product forums were inundated with messages from frustrated Linux users unable to get the application to run.
Although the application installs fine, and the splash screen appears when the app is opened, that’s as far as most users can get. The app catches a ‘signal 11’ error and then closes immediately.
To be fair, Google Earth has always been a little bit rubbish on Linux, though typically only in the looks department.
Compounding the frustrations of those who experience the ‘signal 11’ issue is the annoyance that it’s not not-working for all; plenty of Ubuntu users say it runs well!
A Fix is Coming
Thankfully, Google’s software development team is been attention. I’ve been told that a new build which ‘fixes the issues experienced by many Linux users’ will be released ‘shortly’.
To ensure there are no issues, Google has been testing the revised build with a number of Ubuntu users over the past few weeks.
The working build will carry the version number 7.0.1.8283 (current build 7.0.1.8244), but if you don’t fancy checking version numbers to see if it’s released just keep your ear to this blog: we’ll let you know as soon as it’s out.
For more on Google Earth in general, check out the official web site.