How to Open HEIC Files on Windows 10 and 11 (3 Easy Ways)

iPhones save photos as HEIC to save space. When you copy them to a Windows PC, many of them show a blank icon or an error like "We can't open this file". The photo is fine — Windows just doesn't have the right decoder installed. Here are three ways to fix it.

Method 1: Convert HEIC to JPG (works everywhere)

If you want to share, print, email or upload the photos, converting to JPG is the simplest fix because every device and website opens JPG.

1. Open the HEIC to JPG converter.
2. Select all your HEIC photos at once, or drag the whole selection in.
3. Press Convert and download them as a ZIP.

The conversion runs in your browser, so family photos are never uploaded, and there's no limit on how many you convert.

Method 2: Install the HEIF extension from Microsoft Store

1. Open the Microsoft Store and search for HEIF Image Extensions (free, by Microsoft).
2. Install it and reopen the Photos app.
3. If photos still don't open, also install HEVC Video Extensions. Some PCs already include it; otherwise the Store may ask for a small fee.

This lets you view HEIC files, but many other programs and websites still won't accept them.

Method 3: Make your iPhone send JPG instead

• Settings → Camera → Formats → Most Compatible: new photos are saved as JPG. Files get a bit larger.
• Settings → Photos → Transfer to Mac or PC → Automatic: iOS converts photos to JPG when you copy them over a cable.

Which method should you use?

FAQ

Does converting HEIC to JPG reduce quality?

Very slightly, but at the converter's default quality the difference is not visible. The JPG will be larger than the HEIC.

Can I convert HEIC on my Android phone?

Yes, the converter works in Chrome on Android too.

Want to know more about the format itself? Read What is HEIC format?