What is MIME type "application/vnd.apple.pkpass"?

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

application/vnd.apple.pkpass defines a digital pass for Apple devices.
It is used to distribute passes like boarding passes, event tickets, coupons, and loyalty cards in a secure package.
Files with the PKPASS extension carry this type of data.
These pass files are bundles. They include a JSON file with pass details and images for design.
They are digitally signed for security and can update content based on location or time.

Primary use: Delivering digital passes that work with the Apple Wallet or Passbook app.
Additional uses: Managing tickets, boarding passes, and promotional offers.
Key fact: They maintain integrity through cryptographic signatures.

For further insights on Apple passes, visit Apple Developer Passbook section.

Associated file extensions

.pkpass

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/vnd.apple.pkpass

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/vnd.apple.pkpass">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.apple.pkpass');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.pkpass

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.