What is MIME type "image/vnd.dvb.subtitle"?

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

image/vnd.dvb.subtitle is a MIME type for subtitles used in digital video broadcasting. It carries subtitle data that helps display captions or dialogue during video playback.
This type works with the DVB subtitling system. It syncs text overlays with video content.
It is commonly found in video streams processed by set-top boxes and media players. Files using this type often come with the file extension SUB.

Main use: Display subtitles in TV broadcasts and digital videos.
Technical role: Integrate caption data seamlessly with video streams.
Support: Enables multiple languages and accessibility features.

Learn more about this system on the DVB Subtitle page.

Associated file extensions

.sub

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: image/vnd.dvb.subtitle

HTML

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


    <a href="file.dat" type="image/vnd.dvb.subtitle">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', 'image/vnd.dvb.subtitle');
      res.end('Content here');
    }).listen(3000);

Associated file extensions

.sub

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.