File Extension Database

Open POI File

POI (Point of Interest) file extensions are commonly used for storing location data and other relevant details for geographic locations such as addresses, phone numbers, and website details on GPS devices and mapping tools. While there are various file formats and ways to open and use these files, this article will explore some of the most common formats as well as the applications to help you make the best use of these files.

Common POI File Formats

There are several popular formats for storing and displaying POI data, and each possesses its unique features and advantages. Here, we will highlight some of the most common formats:

CSV (Comma Separated Values): A simple text-based file format that separates values with commas, CSV is easy to create and edit, even with basic text editors.
GPX (GPS Exchange Format): This XML-based file format is widely used in GPS devices and mapping software tools, and it allows for various data types, including routes, tracks, and waypoints.
KML (Keyhole Markup Language): Developed by Google, KML is another XML-based format that is primarily used with Google Earth and Google Maps. KML files can also display additional geographical data such as 3D models and images.
OV2 (TomTom Overlay Format): This binary format, native to TomTom GPS devices, supports multiple types of information, including addresses and phone numbers.

Software and Applications for Opening POI Files

Several software tools and applications can open and manage POI files, depending on the specific file format in question. The following applications cater to different file types:

Microsoft Excel: Widely used spreadsheet software capable of opening and editing CSV files.
GPSBabel: A free, open-source application that offers support for various file formats, including GPX, KML, and OV2. GPSBabel is primarily used for file conversion and data transfer between GPS devices and mapping software.
Google Earth: This popular mapping tool can natively open KML and KMZ files.
Garmin BaseCamp: Garmin's software tool for trip and adventure planning, BaseCamp works with GPX files and supports the transfer of data between GPS devices and computers.

Other Ways to Access and Use POI Files

Several online tools and platforms can also help you access and utilize POI files. Some of these online options include:

GPS Visualizer: An online tool that allows you to create maps and visualizations from POI data in various file formats.
POI Factory: This website offers a vast repository of POI files contributed by users, sorted by categories, and downloadable in several file formats.
POI Editor: An online tool that enables you to create and edit POI files directly in your browser, supporting formats such as CSV, GPX, and KML.

POI File Important Information

It is crucial to be aware of the format of your POI files, as this determines the software and platforms you can use to open and manage them. Always ensure that the GPS device or mapping software you use is compatible with the specific file format of your POI data. Additionally, remember to back up and securely store your POI files, as they often contain valuable and sensitive information.

How Can I Open POI File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open POI file is to find a POI file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a POI file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open POI file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as POI file opener then try to search online for "POI viewer", "application to open POI file" or "open POI file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open POI file

How Can I Open POI File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a POI file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a POI file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with POI file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as POI file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open POI file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open POI file then try to search for "POI viewer", "application to open POI file" or "read POI file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read POI file

How Can I Open POI File on Android

If you downloaded a POI file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded POI file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "POI".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "POI viewer", "POI file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open POI File on iPhone or iPad

To open POI File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the POI file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "POI". This way you can find apps which can open POI files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "POI viewer" or "POI file" online in your favorite search engine.

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