StreetComplete Turns OpenStreetMap Edits Into a Points Game

Key Takeaways

• StreetComplete turns OpenStreetMap contributions into simple yes/no questions called Quests
• The app requires no knowledge of how OpenStreetMap works
• OpenStreetMap powers apps including OsmAnd, Strava, AllTrails, and Pokémon Go

Google Maps dominates navigation, but it's not the only option. OpenStreetMap has quietly powered many popular apps for over 20 years, including Strava, AllTrails, Komoot, Magic Earth, and even Pokémon Go. The catch: it relies entirely on volunteers to keep the data accurate.

That's where StreetComplete comes in. This Android app turns map editing into a simple game. You answer questions about your neighborhood, the app updates OpenStreetMap, and you earn points. No cartography degree required.

How StreetComplete Works

Traditional OpenStreetMap editing involves learning specialized tools and understanding the database structure. StreetComplete skips all that. It breaks down map improvements into bite-sized tasks called "Quests" that appear as icons on your local map.

Each Quest is a simple question you can answer in a few seconds while walking around. The app then converts your answers into proper OpenStreetMap data.

Types of Quests You'll Encounter

Quests fall into a few categories. The easiest ones ask you to confirm existing information: Are these business hours still correct? Does this stairway have a handrail? Is this bench still here?

• Confirmation Quests: Verify business hours, check if benches or trash cans still exist, confirm handrails on stairs
• Multiple-choice Quests: Identify road surface types, parking lot rules, types of memorials or artwork
• Building Quests: Classify building entrances and features

Most responses take just a couple of seconds. You're essentially doing quick field verification that would otherwise require someone to visit the location with full mapping tools.

Getting Started

Download StreetComplete from the Play Store or F-Droid. Open it and grant location access. The app immediately downloads available Quests for your current location.

You can also download Quests for other areas. Zoom to a location, tap the menu icon in the top right, and select "Download data here." This works well if you're planning to visit a new neighborhood or want to contribute to an area you know well.

Why This Matters

OpenStreetMap predates Google Maps. It's the open-source alternative that anyone can use, modify, and build upon. The problem is scale. Google has street view cars, satellite imagery processing, and paid data partnerships. OpenStreetMap has volunteers.

Apps like StreetComplete lower the barrier to contribution. Instead of needing dedicated mappers who understand the system, it recruits casual contributors who just want to help while walking their dog.

The Points System

Every Quest you complete earns points. There's no prize redemption or monetary value. The points exist purely for motivation and to track your contributions. Some users compete informally on leaderboards or simply enjoy watching their totals grow.

It's the same psychology that makes step counters work. The number itself becomes the reward.

Where to Get StreetComplete

The app is available on the Google Play Store and F-Droid. It's free and open source. You'll need an OpenStreetMap account to submit your answers, but creating one takes about a minute.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need mapping experience to use StreetComplete?

No. The app converts your answers into proper OpenStreetMap data automatically. You just answer simple questions about what you see.

Is StreetComplete available for iPhone?

Currently, StreetComplete is Android-only. It's available on the Play Store and F-Droid.

What apps use OpenStreetMap data?

OsmAnd, Komoot, Strava, AllTrails, Magic Earth, and Pokémon Go all use OpenStreetMap as their map data source.

Can I earn money or prizes from StreetComplete points?

No. Points are purely for motivation and tracking your contributions. There's no redemption system.

Source: How-To Geek