What is MIME type "video/quicktime"?

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

The MIME type video/quicktime is used to deliver multimedia content in the QuickTime format. It acts as a versatile container for video, audio, and interactive data.

Files using this MIME type carry complex media information. They support features like synchronized audio and video, embedded metadata, and even interactive elements. For example, file types such as MOV and QT use this format. Other related formats include MP3, QIF, M4P, QTI, QTIF, QTM, and QTVR.

Media playback: It drives smooth video and audio reproduction in players like QuickTime Player.
Streaming: It supports the delivery of video over networks and websites.
Editing: Its container structure holds multiple tracks and metadata, aiding in video editing.
Interactive applications: It enables immersive experiences, as seen in QuickTime VR.

For more technical details, visit the Apple QuickTime Developer Page.

Associated file extensions

.mov, .mp3, .qif, .m4p, .qt, .qti, .qtif, .qtm, .qtvr

Usage Examples

HTTP Header

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


    Content-Type: video/quicktime

HTML

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


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

Associated file extensions

.mov, .mp3, .qif, .m4p, .qt, .qti, .qtif, .qtm, .qtvr

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.