GPI File Extension

What is GPI file?

Files with .GPI extension store map points in a binary format developed by Garmin. GPI files support compression and encryption. POI (Point of Interest) is a point on a map that is of interest or use for someone. GPI files store locations of POI along with additional information.

Uses of GPI files

Before GPS-equipped and internet-enabled smartphones became popular, stand-alone navigation devices were broadly used. Most available models however were not capable of updating stored maps in real-time, so it was user’s responsibility to manually update their maps by attaching the device to a computer connected to the internet. GPI files typically store such POI as:

• Photo radars,
• Traffic checks,
• Favorite restaurants.

Garmin doesn’t offer any tools that can be used to view GPI files on a computer, but dedicated third-party tools do exist. GPI files are rarely used nowadays as easier and more efficient methods of updating GPS maps are available.

Creating and saving GPI files

Garmin POI files can be created using dedicated software tools. Multiple GPI files may be stored on a single device and updated. Tools for creating GPI files typically offer a function to transfer such files to user’s navigation device. GPX is a format similar to GPI that supports additional features.

Programs which support GPI file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open GPI files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with GPI suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 03/24/2022

How to open file with GPI extension?

Problems with accessing GPI may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to Garmin Point Of Interest Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the POI Loader

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports GPI files installed on the system. To address this issue, go to the POI Loader developer website, download the tool, and install it. It is that easy The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading POI Loader installed is by going to developer’s website (Garmin Ltd.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of POI Loader and update if needed

If you already have POI Loader installed on your systems and GPI files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why GPI files are not compatible with POI Loader. The most recent version of POI Loader is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open GPI files to POI Loader

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate GPI files with latest version of POI Loader you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Change the default application in Windows

• Clicking the GPI with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the POI Loader installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open GPI files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• Right-click the GPI file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with GPI extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Ensure that the GPI file is complete and free of errors

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the GPI file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The GPI may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the GPI file hinders attempts to open it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the scanner detected that the GPI file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the GPI file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic GPI file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. When downloading the file with GPI extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the Garmin Point Of Interest Format file.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run POI Loader

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support GPI files. Close all running programs and try opening the GPI file.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Garmin Point Of Interest Format files. It may be the case that the GPI files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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