There are many predefined MIME types, such as GIF graphics files and PostScript files. It is also possible to define your own MIME types.

In addition to e-mail applications, Web browsers also support various MIME types. This enables the browser to display or output files that are not in HTML format.

MIME was defined in 1992 by the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF). A new version, called S/MIME, supports encrypted messages.

MIME documents
Provides links to the Requests for Comments on the mechanisms for specifying and describing the format of Internet message bodies and message header extensions for non-ASCII text documents.

The MIME information page
Features MIME specifications, FAQs, Request for Comments documents, e-mail related links, and tools for programmers.

Audio MIME Types
HotWired Webmonkey article (April 1997) on knowing which audio MIME type is best when you embed sound in your pages.

USENET FAQs on MIME
Provides links to several usenet newsgroup FAQs for MIME.