Keyhole Markup Language

.kml

Supported

KML (Keyhole Markup Language) is an XML-based geographic markup language originally developed by Keyhole and later acquired by Google, becoming an OGC standard. KML can describe points, lines, polygons, image overlays, 3D models, and other rich geographic content. It is the native format for Google Earth and Google Maps. KML files organize geographic data using tags and attributes, and support style definitions and network link functionality.

Specifications

Standard: OGC

MIME: application/vnd.google-earth.kml+xml

Key Features

XML-based format with clear structure, easy to parse
Supports rich style definitions including icons, colors, and transparency
Native support for display in Google Earth and Google Maps

Advantages

Deep integration with Google ecosystem, can be displayed directly in Google Earth
Supports NetworkLink for dynamic data updates

Limitations

Large file sizes, not suitable for storing many features
No topology support, limited expression of complex features
Style information embedded in data increases file complexity

Common Use Cases

Data display in Google Earth and Google Maps
Sharing and publishing GPS tracks and points of interest
Visualization and annotation of geographic information