How to Install Google Earth for Ubuntu

Use this virtual globe app to browse the world from your desktop

Screenshot of Google Earth running in Ubuntu Linux
Jon Fisher
by Gary Newell
An application developer and software tester with more than 20 years in the IT industry working on Windows, UNIX and Linux.
Updated November 16, 2018

You can install Google Earth for Ubuntu by first downloading the program from Google's website. The setup is straightforward and easy for anyone to complete.

Another way to use this program in Ubuntu is through the online version of Google Earth. It runs as a web application exclusively for the Chrome browser, so it doesn't require any installation.

01
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Download the Google Earth Setup File

Screenshot showing how to download Google Earth in Linux

Jon Fisher

The best way to download Google Earth is directly from Google's website:

  1. Visit the Google Earth download page.
  2. Check the box next to the privacy policy confirming that you have read it and agree to it.
  3. Choose the correct download package for your Ubuntu installation.
  4. Click Agree and Download.
  5. Click Save File or Save.
  6. If asked, pick a folder as the location for your setup file.
02
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Install Google Earth in Ubuntu

Screenshot of the Google Earth installation window in Linux

Jon Fisher

The steps to install Google Earth are very straightforward:

  1. Double-click the download file.
  2. Click Install in Ubuntu Software Center.
  3. Wait for the progress bar to fill up.
  4. If asked for your password, enter it and click Authenticate.

Google Earth can be opened from your list of applications or by searching for it.