Google Earth is an innovative application that allows users to explore our planet and beyond through satellite imagery, 3D maps, and interactive features. Whether you’re an avid traveller, a geography enthusiast, or simply curious about the world, Google Earth provides a platform to discover and navigate various locations. However, like any other software, Google Earth can encounter technical glitches which stop it from working properly.
In this article, we have discussed the causes of the Google Earth not working issue and a few ways to help you fix the problem.
What are the causes of the Google Earth not working issue?
Below we have mentioned a few possible reasons that might be causing problems while you are trying to use Google Earth.
- Problems with APIs.
- Outdated graphics card driver.
- Issues with the app.
- Scaling problem.
- Issues with the shortcut file.
Also read: How to find the nearest petrol station on Google Maps?
How to fix the issue?
If you are unable to use Google Earth then we have explained a few ways that might help you resolve the issue.
Use OpenGL
If you can open Google Earth then follow the below step otherwise move to the next method.
Step 1: Open Google Earth and click on the Tools tab.
Step 2: In the dropdown menu click on the Options…
Step 3: Click on the 3D View tab, in the Graphics Mode select OpenGL and then click on the Apply button and then the Ok button.
Update the graphics device driver
You might be using an outdated version of the device driver and it might be causing issues when you are trying to use Google Earth, so check for the update of the driver and update it. Visit the website of your GPU manufacturer to check for the latest drivers.
Click here to check out how to update NVIDIA graphics drivers
Use the Repair tool
Google is aware of the bugs users are facing, and they have included a Repair Tool to directly tackle these issues. The tool can be accessed within the app, but if you’re unable to open it, the only solution is to run it from the Google Earth folder in the Program Files.
Step 1: Open the File Explore and then copy and paste C:\Program Files\Google\Google Earth Pro\client in the address bar and hit Enter.
Step 2: Scroll down and find the repair_tool.exe file and then double-click on it to open it.
Step 3: You should try each of the six options provided by the tool until the issue with the app is resolved.
Fix the scaling issues
Step 1: Right-click on the Google Earth icon and in the dropdown menu, click on Properties.
Step 2: In the Properties, Click on the Compatibility tab and then click on Change high DPI settings option.
Step 3: Under Program DPI, checkmark the box beside the Use this setting to fix scaling problems for this program instead of the one in settings and click on the OK button.
Step 4: Click on the Apply and then the OK button.
Create the Google Earth shortcut again
Delete the Google Earth shortcut on your desktop and then create it again, to do that follow the steps below.
Step 1: Open the File Explore and then copy and paste C:\Program Files\Google\Google Earth Pro\client in the address bar and hit Enter.
Step 2: Right-click on the googleearth.exe file.
Step 3: In the dropdown menu, click on the Create shortcut option and use it to open the app.
Reinstall Google Earth
If none of the above methods work for you then you can try uninstalling and reinstalling Google Earth. This process can help resolve any underlying software conflicts that may be causing the issues. Uninstall the application from your device, restart your device, and then reinstall Google Earth from a reliable source.
Also read: How to stop navigation in Google Maps?
