How to create a GPX file and play it back on Android

Step by step: Create a GPX file and play it back on Android

1. Plan the routeOpen a web route planner such as gpx.studio, turn on road-snapping and click along the route.
2. Export as GPXExport or download the route as a .gpx file.
3. Send it to your phoneMove the file to your phone with Google Drive, email or a USB cable.
4. Import itIn Golub, open Routes › Import GPX and choose the file, or open the .gpx file and pick Golub.
5. Check the speed modeChoose walking, cycling or driving speed.
6. Start the playbackPress Start. The simulated location follows the route.
7. Export the edited versionUse Export GPX to save the route again, for example after adding stops.

Three ways to get a GPX file

Option 1: draw it in gpx.studio

gpx.studio is a free web planner. Turn on road-snapping (routing) so your line follows streets and paths, click along the route, then export it as GPX. This gives the most realistic result.

Option 2: Google My Maps → KML → GPX

Google Maps can't export GPX. Google My Maps can draw directions and export them as KML. Open the KML in a converter (or in gpx.studio) and save it as GPX.

Option 3: your own recorded track

Most sports watches and tracking apps let you export your own recorded activity as GPX. That's useful to replay a path you've already walked or driven.

Check the file before you use it

Open the GPX in a viewer and look for: the right start and end, enough points on curves, and no jumps across water or buildings. A clean file plays back smoothly.

Play it back on Android

In Golub, open Routes › Import GPX, choose the file and pick a speed: walking, cycling or driving. Add stops, repeat or a return trip if you need them, then press Start.

Frequently asked questions

What's inside a GPX file?

GPX is an XML format with three kinds of data: waypoints (single points), routes (an ordered list of points to follow) and tracks (a recorded path, often with timestamps).

What's the difference between a track and a route?

A track is a path that was recorded, point by point. A route is a planned list of points to follow. Most apps can play either.

Can I convert KML to GPX?

Yes. Google My Maps exports KML, and free converters (or tools like gpx.studio) open KML and save it as GPX.

Why is my imported route made of straight lines?

The file has few points, usually because it was drawn without road-snapping. Redraw it with road-snapping on so the route follows streets.

Is GPX playback free in Golub?

Routes, including GPX import, playback and export, are part of Golub Premium.