As if you needed more proof that virtual worlds were serious business, US intelligence VC organization In-Q-Tel are about to fund additional features to Forterra System's OLIVE platform. Features are to include the ability to import Sketchup models, a network proxy that allows the system to run through a wider range of firewall configs, a 3D conferencing and document sharing utility and a whole stack of avatar and environment based tweaks.
Interestingly, Sketchup is owned by Google, and Google have strong ties with In-Q-Tel, the NSA and other intelligence agencies. Google have been in the news of late with rumors resurfacing of a Sketchup/Google Earth based virtual world offering about to go live and well, it makes you wonder doesn't it?
Could Google's world be based on OLIVE? Are they about to buy Forterra? Probably not, but the ties are clear, making it an interesting set of stories to watch develop.