relmanifest

Relmanifest refers to the link relation type used to indicate a Web App Manifest resource for a web application. In HTML documents, it is declared with a link element such as <link rel="manifest" href="/manifest.webmanifest">. The same relation can also be conveyed via the HTTP Link header. The manifest resource provides metadata that enables progressive web apps (PWAs) to be installed and run in a stand-alone context.

The Web App Manifest is a JSON file that defines how the application should behave when installed. Common fields include name and short_name for display names, icons (an array of icon objects with src, sizes, and type), start_url for the initial page, display mode (such as standalone or fullscreen), background_color and theme_color for aesthetics, and scope and orientation to constrain navigation and orientation. Optional fields may include description, categories, and related_applications. The manifest allows web apps to specify how they should be launched, how they appear on the home screen, and what UI chrome to present when launched.

Standards and usage: the manifest is described by the Web App Manifest specification, developed within the W3C/WHATWG ecosystem. The rel="manifest" link type is registered as a valid link relation type (often via IANA) and is recognized by major browsers to obtain the manifest. Browsers use the manifest to guide installation prompts, create app-like windows, and determine available display modes. However, feature support can vary by browser, platform, and user settings; some browsers may require additional steps such as service worker registration for full offline functionality.

See also: progressive web apps, web app manifest, service workers, add to home screen.