What is the GPI file format?
Files with a .gpi extension store map points in a binary format developed by Garmin. GPI files support internal record packing and, for commercial or subscription content, device-locked encryption. A POI (Point of Interest) is a specific location on a map that is of interest or use to a traveler. .gpi files store POI coordinates along with additional data such as proximity alerts, speed-alert thresholds, and optional small bitmap icons.
Uses of GPI files
Before GPS-equipped smartphones became popular, stand-alone Garmin navigation devices were widely used. Most models were not capable of updating stored maps in real time, so it was the user's responsibility to manually update POI databases by attaching the device to a computer. GPI files typically store such POIs as:
- speed and photo-radar locations,
- traffic checkpoints,
- favorite restaurants and fuel stops.
Garmin does not offer dedicated tools to view .gpi files on a computer, but third-party utilities such as GPSBabel and POIedit can read and convert them. GPI files are less common today as Garmin devices receive live updates and smartphones have largely replaced dedicated GPS units.
Creating and saving GPI files
GPI files are created using Garmin POI Loader or Garmin BaseCamp, typically from a source CSV or GPX file. Multiple .gpi files may be stored on a single device and updated as needed. Tools for building GPI files include a transfer function to copy them directly to the user's navigation device, stored under the Garmin/POI/ folder. GPX is an open format that serves a similar purpose but also supports tracks and routes.
Security & safety
RISK: LOWA .gpi is GPS location data with no executable code; loading it onto a Garmin is safe. Two practical cautions: download POI packs (especially speed-camera sets) from reputable sources, since outdated or wrong coordinates are the real hazard; and get POI Loader/BaseCamp from Garmin's official site rather than third-party portals. Commercial/subscription POI sets may be locked to one device and won't transfer.
Format details
in a nutshellPrograms that open GPI files
Windows4 apps
GPSBabel
Open-source Load the .gpi (format 'garmin_gpi') to view/convert the points; export to GPX or CSV. Best free way to inspect a GPI on a PC. 
Garmin POI Loader
Free Run POI Loader, point it at your POI source and your connected Garmin; it builds the .gpi and copies it to the device. (Primarily a loader/creator, not a viewer.) 
macOS3 apps
Garmin POI Loader (Mac)
Free Use the Mac build of POI Loader to create and load .gpi files onto a connected Garmin. 
Linux1 app
GPSBabel
Open-source Command line: 'gpsbabel -i garmin_gpi -f file.gpi -o gpx -F out.gpx' to convert/inspect. Technical details
deep spec| Encoding | Binary (proprietary Garmin record database) |
| Byte order | Little-endian |
| Compression | Internal Garmin record packing |
| Encryption | Optional; commercial/subscription POIs can be device-locked |
| Typical file size | 10 KB - several MB |
| MIME type | application/octet-stream |
| Magic bytes | None - identified by extension and internal record structure |
| POI record fields | Name, latitude/longitude, optional phone number, proximity/speed-alert threshold, bitmap icon |
| Alert types | Proximity alerts; speed-camera alerts with optional audio |
| Compatible devices | Garmin nüvi, zūmo, Drive series GPS units |
| Max POI entries per file | Thousands (device memory is the practical limit) |
| POI icon size | Small bitmaps, typically up to ~24×24 pixels |
| Released | 2000s, with Garmin's custom-POI feature and POI Loader |
| Latest version | Garmin GPI format as produced by current POI Loader / BaseCamp builds |
| Specification | www.garmin.com |
GPI conversions
Community Q&A
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