What is MIME type "audio/vnd.audible.aax"?

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

The MIME type audio/vnd.audible.aax identifies files that store Audible Enhanced Audio content. It is used mainly for audiobooks from Audible.
The format bundles audio with rich metadata and supports digital rights management (DRM). This ensures that only authorized software can play the file.

The format supports features like chapter markers and bookmarking. It allows for smooth navigation within an audiobook.

Primary Use: Securing and delivering digital audiobooks.
DRM Protection: Restricts playback to licensed applications and devices.
Enhanced Audio Features: Includes chapter information, bookmarks, and detailed metadata.
Playback Compatibility: Intended for Audible’s ecosystem and authorized audio players.

For more details on file behavior and compatibility, check the file extension page for AAX.

Associated file extensions

.aax

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: audio/vnd.audible.aax

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.aax

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.