OSM File

What are OSM files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening an OSM file or just wondering what they contain? We explain what these files are used for and show you software that we know can open or otherwise handle your files.

What is an OSM file?

OSM files have multiple uses, and OpenStreetMap XML Data is one of them. Read more about the other uses further down the page.

OpenStreetMap XML Data

The data inside these files is utilized to display geographical information in OpenStreetMap - a collaborative project which strives to construct a free and editable globe map.

OSM files store data such as points of interest, roads, and other features that make up a map. These files use the XML (Extensible Markup Language) format to encode the data in a structured way.

OpenStreetMap's OSM files are utilized by multiple software programs, tools, and applications to represent or modify their data. This format is regularly employed by developers, cartographers, and other experts who work with geographical data.

How to open OSM files

Important: Different programs may use files with the OSM file extension for different purposes, so unless you are sure which format your OSM file is, you may need to try a few different programs.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested nine different OSM openers which you will find listed below.

Last updated: January 25, 2023

All known file formats using extension .OSM

While OpenStreetMap XML Data is a popular type of OSM-file, we know of 2 different uses of the .OSM file extension. Different software may use files with the same extension for different types of data.

Oxygen Software SMS Data

We know that one OSM format is Oxygen Software SMS Data. We have not yet analyzed in detail what these files contain and what they are used for. We're working on it.

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of OSM files. Remember, different programs may use OSM files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.

Help us help others

File.org helps thousands of users every day, and we would love to hear from you if you have additional information about OSM file formats, example files, or compatible programs. Please use the links below or email us at submit@file.org to discuss further.