What is MIME type "application/x-softbook"?

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

MIME Type: application/x-softbook is a label for files used in electronic publishing environments. It identifies a proprietary format that primarily supports interactive digital publications. Files with this MIME type commonly have the extension IMP.

This format is tailored for use on specific e-reading platforms. It ensures that digital content is rendered with the correct layout and any interactive features intended by publishers.
It was especially relevant for early, dedicated devices designed for digital books.

Digital Publishing: Delivers multimedia-rich content in a controlled format.
Interactive Content: Supports embedded images, audio, or other media.
Platform Specificity: Optimized for SoftBook devices and related software.

The format plays a role in maintaining document integrity and presentation in environments where layout and interactivity are key. For extended details about file types and related content, visit Filext.

Associated file extensions

.imp

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: application/x-softbook

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="application/x-softbook">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/x-softbook');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.imp

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.