Which MIME types are related to file extension ".aax"?

The .aax file extension is associated with 2 MIME types:

application/octet-stream, audio/vnd.audible.aax.

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

About .aax Files

Audible Enhanced Audio file used mainly for distributing audiobooks. They store compressed audio data and often include DRM protection to secure the content.

These files are recognized by two MIME types: application/octet-stream for generic binary data and audio/vnd.audible.aax for audio-specific identification. This duality indicates that while the file holds audio information, its structure is proprietary and secured.

Main Use: Delivery of encrypted audiobooks from Audible.
Enhanced Features: Includes chapter markers, bookmarks, and sometimes multiple audio streams.
Playback Software: Can be played back in Audible’s official apps on PC and mobile, and sometimes via integrated services in software like iTunes.
DRM Restrictions: Limits file conversion and editing, keeping the content secure.

Based on information from FilExt.com, AAX files are designed specifically for the secure distribution of audiobooks, offering a high-quality listening experience with enhanced audiobook features.

Relationship between file extension and MIME type

A file extension is a suffix at the end of a filename that indicates what type of file it is. File extensions help both users and operating systems identify what application should be used to open the file.

File extensions are typically separated from the filename by a period (dot) and consist of 2-4 characters, though they can be longer. For example, in the filename "document.pdf", ".pdf" is the file extension.

File extensions are closely related to MIME types, as they both serve to identify the format of a file. However, while MIME types are used primarily by web browsers and servers, file extensions are used by operating systems and applications.

Associated MIME types

application/octet-stream, audio/vnd.audible.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 can one extension have multiple MIME types?

Different programs and historical usage may assign various MIME identifiers to the same file format. Listing them together helps maintain compatibility across tools.