What is MIME type "audio/matroska"?

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

The MIME type audio/matroska is an open container format built on the Matroska framework that stores audio-only content.
It supports detailed metadata, multiple audio streams, chapters, and embedded images. This means it can handle high-quality recordings and advanced playback features.
It is used in environments that need robust audio data management and precise information tracking.

High-quality audio preservation with support for multiple tracks
Enhanced metadata integration for chapters and cover art
Flexibility for streaming and archiving audio content

Files associated with this MIME type include the Matroska family such as MKV, MKS, MKA, and MK3D.
More technical details and specifications are available at the Matroska official site.

Associated file extensions

.mkv, .mks, .mka, .mk3d

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: audio/matroska

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="audio/matroska">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', 'audio/matroska');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.mkv, .mks, .mka, .mk3d

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.