What is MIME type "application/vnd.adobe.indesign-idml-package"?

A MIME type is a string that tells browsers and other tools how to handle a particular kind of file.

application/vnd.adobe.indesign-idml-package is a file container used with Adobe InDesign documents. It stores the document layout and style details in an XML format. It acts as a bridge between closed, proprietary files and open, editable content.

This MIME type packages the design’s structure and assets in one compressed file. It makes revision control, file exchange, and advanced editing easier.

Main use: It enables desktop publishing workflows in InDesign.
It holds multiple XML files and assets together as a package.
It supports file sharing, collaboration, and version management.
It fits into XML-based editing workflows for enhanced document control.
It is commonly linked to file types such as IDML, IDMS, and ICMA.

Each package is structured in XML, which allows for direct editing in text or specialized XML editors. For more details on InDesign and its file formats, visit Adobe InDesign.

Associated file extensions

.idml, .idms, .icma

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

When serving content with this MIME type, set the Content-Type header:


    Content-Type: application/vnd.adobe.indesign-idml-package

HTML

In HTML, you can specify the MIME type in various elements:


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/vnd.adobe.indesign-idml-package">Download file</a>

Server-side (Node.js)

Setting the Content-Type header in Node.js:


    const http = require('http');
    
    http.createServer((req, res) => {
      res.setHeader('Content-Type', 'application/vnd.adobe.indesign-idml-package');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.idml, .idms, .icma

FAQ

What is a MIME type?

A MIME (Multipurpose Internet Mail Extensions) type is a standard that indicates the nature and format of a document, file, or assortment of bytes. MIME types are defined and standardized in IETF's RFC 6838.

MIME types are important because they help browsers and servers understand how to process a file. When a browser receives a file from a server, it uses the MIME type to determine how to display or handle the content, whether it's an image to display, a PDF to open in a viewer, or a video to play.

MIME types consist of a type and a subtype, separated by a slash (e.g., text/html, image/jpeg, application/pdf). Some MIME types also include optional parameters.

How do I find the MIME type for a file?

You can check the file extension or use a file identification tool such as file --mime-type on the command line. Many programming languages also provide libraries to detect MIME types.

Why are multiple MIME types listed for one extension?

Different applications and historical conventions may use alternative MIME identifiers for the same kind of file. Showing them all helps ensure compatibility across systems.