OpenStreetMap is unique since anyone can edit the map - but it’s hard to get quick access to updated data. PBF download services for the planet or extracts update daily or weekly. Some database tools or third party tile providers update minutely. A core pain point in providing timely data is that working with the planet PBF is difficult.

I’ll introduce OSM Express (OSMx), a new spatial file format for any OSM extract, even the entire planet. OSMx is a simple binary program and C++ library based on S2 Geometry that doesn’t need a server process. I’ll show how you can create “metro extracts” in seconds and update the planet via minutely diffs. I’ll also share performance tips and outline some use cases.