File Extension Database

Open GPS File

Files with GPS extensions have a wide range of uses and formats, making them valuable for various purposes, such as navigation, mapping, and tracking activities. While the extensions may appear similar at first glance, the underlying data and functionality can vary significantly. In this article, we'll explore the available formats, ways to open them, and how to get the most out of GPS files in each instance.

GPX Format

The GPX (GPS Exchange Format) file is a widely used format for exchanging GPS data between applications. It's an XML schema designed to store, transfer, and share waypoint, track, and route data. Some of the most popular applications that can open GPX files include Google Earth, Garmin BaseCamp, and EasyGPS. Many websites also allow you to upload and view GPX files, such as GPSies and AllTrails.

KML and KMZ Formats

Keyhole Markup Language (KML) is another XML-based format used to display geographic data in applications like Google Earth and Google Maps. KML files can contain points, lines, polygons, and other geospatial elements. KMZ files are essentially compressed (zipped) KML files, which make them smaller and more manageable. Google Earth can directly open both KML and KMZ files, while several online converters can transform these formats into GPX if needed, such as GPS Visualizer.

NMEA Format

NMEA (National Marine Electronics Association) is one of the oldest GPS data formats, typically used for real-time exchange of GPS data between devices. NMEA files contain text data in a standardized structure. Common applications that work with NMEA files include GPSBabel and VisualGPS, and many online tools can convert NMEA data into other formats, such as GPX, like GPSBabel.

Shapefile Format

A Shapefile is a popular GIS (Geographic Information System) format developed by Esri. It stores information about points, lines, or polygons along with associated attribute data such as names, addresses, and other information. Shapefiles are widely used in applications like QGIS, ArcGIS, and MapWindow. While the format originated within the GIS community, many data-conversion tools exist for working with Shapefiles and GPS-related formats, like the MyGeodata Cloud Converter.

CSV Format

CSV (Comma Separated Values) files are simple text files containing rows of data separated by commas. In the context of GPS data, each row may represent waypoints, tracks, or routes, while columns hold different aspects like latitude, longitude, altitude, and timestamp. Many GPS devices and mapping software can import and export CSV files. To convert CSV files to other GPS formats, tools like GPS Visualizer can be helpful.

GPS File Important Information

In conclusion, it's crucial to understand the differences between various GPS file formats and the tools needed to work with them. Always make sure to use the appropriate format for the specific application or device in use. Converting GPS data between formats may occasionally introduce errors, so verify the information after converting, especially when working with critical data. By keeping these points in mind, you'll be well-equipped to handle any GPS-related tasks with ease.

How Can I Open GPS File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open GPS file is to find a GPS file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a GPS 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 GPS 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 GPS file opener then try to search online for "GPS viewer", "application to open GPS file" or "open GPS file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open GPS file

How Can I Open GPS File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a GPS file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a GPS 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 GPS file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as GPS file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open GPS file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open GPS file then try to search for "GPS viewer", "application to open GPS file" or "read GPS file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read GPS file

How Can I Open GPS File on Android

If you downloaded a GPS 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 GPS 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 "GPS".
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 "GPS viewer", "GPS 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 GPS File on iPhone or iPad

To open GPS 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 GPS 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 "GPS". This way you can find apps which can open GPS 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 "GPS viewer" or "GPS file" online in your favorite search engine.

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