How to Open a HEIC File on Windows (and Convert to JPG)
A .heic file is a photo taken by an iPhone. Apple uses HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) as its default camera format. On Apple devices it opens without any effort. On Windows it often does not.
On iPhone or Mac, HEIC opens natively. On Windows, you need the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store before Photos and File Explorer can display it. The quickest cross-device fix is to convert to JPG.
What you actually need to do depends on where you are trying to open the file.
On iPhone or Mac: no action needed
HEIC is Apple’s own format, so it opens automatically. Tap the file in Photos on iPhone, or double-click it in Finder on a Mac. Nothing extra is required.
If you are sharing the photo with someone on Windows, though, that is where the friction starts.
On Windows 11: install the extension
Modern Windows 11 builds may already display HEIC thumbnails in File Explorer and open them in the Photos app. Check by double-clicking a HEIC file first.
If it does not open, install the free extension from the Microsoft Store:
- Open the Microsoft Store (search for it in the Start menu).
- Search for HEIF Image Extensions.
- Click Get and install it.
- Double-click the HEIC file again. Photos should now open it.
Note: a separate HEVC Video Extensions package is sometimes listed alongside it and may carry a small charge. You only need that for HEVC video files, not for still HEIC photos.
On Windows 10: extension usually required
Windows 10 does not include HEIC support out of the box. Install the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store using the same steps above before the Photos app will recognise the format.
The easiest fix: convert to JPG
If you just need the photo in a format that works everywhere, converting it to JPG is the simplest path. You do not need to install anything on Windows to receive a JPG.
Two ways to convert:
From your iPhone before sending. If you share the photo via AirDrop, Messages, or email, iOS can convert it automatically. When you share through the standard share sheet, iOS often sends a JPEG to non-Apple devices without asking.
The second option works on any computer, with no extension to install.
Using a reputable online converter. Upload the HEIC file to a well-known converter, download the JPG. Stick to converters from reputable sources. Avoid random “HEIC opener” downloads that install desktop software you did not ask for.
Avoid unfamiliar HEIC converters. Random desktop apps marketed as HEIC openers are a common source of unwanted software. Use the Microsoft Store extension or a well-known web converter instead.
Stop your iPhone saving HEIC in the first place
If HEIC keeps causing friction, you can switch your iPhone camera to capture JPEGs from now on. You will not need to convert anything after the change.
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap Camera.
- Tap Formats.
- Choose Most Compatible.
“Most Compatible” captures JPEG instead of HEIC going forward. Existing HEIC files on your camera roll are not affected.
You may also notice .aae files alongside HEIC photos when you transfer them to Windows. Those are Apple’s sidecar edit files. Windows cannot use them either, but deleting them is usually safe. Apple’s word-processor format hits the same Windows wall, which the guide to opening a PAGES file covers.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions about HEIC files, answered briefly.
Why does Windows say it cannot open a HEIC file?
Windows does not include HEIC support unless the HEIF Image Extensions are installed. Install the free extension from the Microsoft Store and try again.
Is HEIC better than JPG?
HEIC files are typically smaller than JPG at the same quality. The trade-off is compatibility: HEIC does not open reliably outside Apple devices without extra steps.
Can I open a HEIC file without installing anything on Windows?
Yes, by converting it to JPG first using a reputable online converter. You can also use a browser-based viewer that supports HEIC upload without requiring a desktop install.
Why do I also have .aae files next to my HEIC photos?
Apple creates .aae files to store photo edits without modifying the original. Windows cannot use them, and they are safe to ignore or delete. You can also check that you can see file extensions in Windows so you know exactly what each file is before deleting anything.
Will switching my iPhone to “Most Compatible” reduce photo quality?
Slightly. HEIC is a more efficient format, so JPEG files are somewhat larger for the same visual quality. For most purposes the difference is not noticeable.