DigitalGlobe CEO Jill Smith to Resign Sept 2011

That marks the end of her current contract and she plans not to renew, per a statement released on Wednesday. The company has begun a search.

- Daily Camera

World Economic Forum Pioneers in Tech Winners include LBS Players

Among a class of 31 companies deemed Technology Pioneers (Google Inc. was one once) are Foursquare and Layar. Also noteworthy to me: Scribd Inc.

To be selected as a Technology Pioneer, a company must be involved in the development of a major technology or innovation and have the potential for long-term impact on business and society. In addition, it must demonstrate visionary leadership and show all the signs of being a long-standing and sustainable market leader – and its technology must be proven, according to the forum.

- WSJ Blog

Google Tidbits

There’s a new version of SketchUp v8 3D.

- Google Earth Blog and via Google PR

Google has introduced a beta of sponsored icons for Google Maps. Instead of a generic pin, those who pay will have their own logo appear. First takers include: Bank of America, HSBC, Target and Public Storage. The feature was first tested and became popular in Australia.

- AdWeek

Google is showing off HTML5 via a new demo getting lots of buzz. “It features a mash-up of Google Maps and Google Street View with HTML5 canvas, HTML5 audio and video, an interactive drawing tool, and choreographed windows that dance around the screen. These modern web technologies have helped us craft an experience that is personalised and unique for each viewer, as you virtually run through the streets where you grew up.”

- Chrome Blog