Convert KML to UPOI

Some iGO navigation software accepts user points of interest as .upoi files but does not import KML directly. Converting KML point placemarks lets you transfer saved locations into a compatible POI list.

What KML is

KML (Keyhole Markup Language) is an XML-based format for geographic features, including points, paths, and polygons. Google Earth and GIS applications such as QGIS use it to store and exchange map data.

What UPOI is

UPOI is a user-POI file format used by compatible iGO navigation software. It stores points of interest, not general map features, so it is suitable when the destination device or app specifically accepts .upoi files.

How to convert KML to UPOI

GPSBabel can read KML and write the iGo 8 UPOI format. In its graphical interface, choose the KML input format, select the source file, choose iGo 8 as the output format, set an output filename ending in .upoi, and run the conversion. GPSBabel calls this output format igo8; upoi is not the format identifier.

Alternatively, run this command, replacing the filenames as needed:

gpsbabel -i kml -f input.kml -o igo8 -F output.upoi

Import the resulting file using the destination app's POI import procedure. Some iGO versions require a particular filename or folder, so follow that software's instructions.

Compatibility and conversion limits

Only KML point placemarks are appropriate POI records; paths and polygons do not become equivalent UPOI features. Names may transfer, but KML descriptions, folders, styles, extended data, and other metadata may not be retained. Check the output in the destination app for correct coordinates and labels. GPSBabel converts locally, so an online converter is not needed.