How to Open HEIC Files on Windows & Convert to JPG (Free)
iPhone photos saved as .heic files won't open on Windows by default. Here are three methods to fix this — including one that requires zero software installation.
Why your iPhone saves photos as HEIC
Since iOS 11 (released in 2017), all iPhones and iPads capture photos in HEIC format (High Efficiency Image Container) by default. HEIC is based on the HEIF standard developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) and offers significant advantages over the older JPEG format:
- Half the file size: A HEIC photo is typically 40–50% smaller than an equivalent JPEG at the same visual quality. This means your iPhone can store roughly twice as many photos in the same storage space.
- Better quality at lower sizes: HEIC uses more advanced compression algorithms that preserve fine details, gradients, and colours better than JPEG at equivalent file sizes.
- Support for 16-bit colour depth: Standard JPEG supports 8-bit colour (16.7 million colours). HEIC supports up to 16-bit (billions of colours), which matters for HDR photography.
- Live Photos and burst sequences: A single HEIC file can store multiple frames, making it ideal for Apple's Live Photos feature.
The problem is that HEIC is an Apple-developed format, and Windows does not include native HEIC support out of the box. When you copy photos from your iPhone to a Windows PC, you end up with files that nothing can open — not Windows Photos, not Paint, not even most image editors.
Method 1 — Convert HEIC to JPG online (no software needed, 100% private)
This is the fastest method and works on any version of Windows, Mac, or Linux — with no software to install and no files sent to any server.
Step 1 — Open the converter
Go to the FreeTools HEIC to JPG converter. The page loads in your browser — that's all you need. No account, no login, no extension.
Step 2 — Add your HEIC files
Drag and drop your .heic or .heif files directly onto the upload area, or click Browse Files to select them from your computer. You can add multiple files at once for batch conversion.
Your files never leave your device. The conversion happens entirely using JavaScript running in your browser tab — not on any server. You can even disconnect from the internet after the page loads and the converter will still work.
Step 3 — Download the converted JPG files
Conversion is nearly instant. Once done, you'll see a preview of each converted image along with the original and new file sizes. Click Download JPG for individual files, or Download All as ZIP to get everything in one archive.
If you need PNG instead of JPG (for example, to preserve transparency), use the HEIC to PNG converter — same process, different output format.
Method 2 — Install the Windows HEIF Image Extension
Microsoft offers a codec that adds native HEIC support directly to Windows. Once installed, your existing apps (Windows Photos, Paint, File Explorer thumbnails) will be able to open HEIC files without any conversion.
Step 1 — Open the Microsoft Store
Press the Windows key, type Microsoft Store, and press Enter.
Step 2 — Search for "HEIF Image Extensions"
In the Store search bar, type HEIF Image Extensions. Look for the app published by Microsoft Corporation. It may be free or cost a small amount depending on your region and Windows version.
Step 3 — Install and restart
Click Get or Install. Once installed, Windows Photos and File Explorer will display HEIC thumbnails and let you open the files. You may need to restart your PC for the changes to take effect.
Limitation: This method only lets you view HEIC files — it doesn't convert them to JPG. If you need to share photos with people or upload them to websites that don't accept HEIC, you'll still need to convert them.
Method 3 — Stop your iPhone from saving HEIC in the first place
If the problem is recurring — you transfer photos from your iPhone frequently and they're always HEIC — the most permanent solution is to change your iPhone's camera settings to save in the universally compatible JPEG format.
Step 1 — Open Settings on your iPhone
Tap the grey gear icon on your home screen to open the Settings app.
Step 2 — Navigate to Camera → Formats
Scroll down and tap Camera, then tap Formats at the top of the screen.
Step 3 — Select "Most Compatible"
Tap Most Compatible. From now on, your iPhone will save photos as JPG and videos as MP4 — formats that open on virtually any device or operating system.
Trade-off: JPG files are roughly twice as large as HEIC at equivalent quality. If you have a 64 GB iPhone, you'll be able to store about half as many photos after this change. For most users with modern iPhones (256 GB or more), this is not a concern.
Note: This change only affects new photos. Existing photos already saved as HEIC on your camera roll will remain HEIC — use Method 1 to convert those.
HEIC vs JPG — which is better?
For most practical purposes, the answer depends entirely on what you're doing with the photos:
| Factor | HEIC | JPG |
|---|---|---|
| File size | ✅ ~50% smaller | ❌ Larger |
| Windows compatibility | ❌ Needs codec | ✅ Universal |
| Web browser support | ⚠️ Partial | ✅ Universal |
| Social media upload | ⚠️ Sometimes rejected | ✅ Always accepted |
| Image quality (same size) | ✅ Better | Good |
| Colour depth | ✅ Up to 16-bit | 8-bit |
Bottom line: Keep HEIC on your iPhone for storage efficiency. Convert to JPG whenever you need to share, upload to a website, edit on Windows, or send to someone who isn't using an Apple device.
Frequently asked questions
Why won't HEIC files open on Windows?
Windows doesn't include native HEIC support because the HEIF codec is a licensed format. Microsoft offers the HEIF Image Extension through the Microsoft Store, but many users prefer to simply convert HEIC to JPG, which is universally supported.
Does converting HEIC to JPG reduce quality?
At high quality settings (85% and above), the visual difference is imperceptible to the human eye. Our converter uses a quality setting that produces visually identical results for everyday photos. The file will be larger than HEIC but just as sharp.
Can I convert HEIC without uploading to a server?
Yes — that's exactly what our converter does. The conversion happens entirely inside your browser using JavaScript. Your HEIC files are never sent anywhere. This is especially important for personal or sensitive photos.
How do I stop my iPhone from saving photos as HEIC?
Go to Settings → Camera → Formats and select "Most Compatible". Your iPhone will then save photos as JPG and videos as MP4. This uses more storage but ensures your photos open on any device.
Can I convert multiple HEIC files at once?
Yes. Our HEIC to JPG converter supports batch processing. Select or drop multiple .heic files at once and download them all as a ZIP file when done — all converted privately in your browser.
What's the difference between HEIC and HEIF?
HEIF (High Efficiency Image Format) is the container standard. HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is Apple's specific implementation of HEIF for still images. On Apple devices you'll see .heic file extensions; .heif is used on some other platforms. Both can be converted using the same tools.
Ready to convert your iPhone photos?
Convert HEIC to JPG or PNG instantly — free, private, and no software to install.