How to Convert HEIC to JPG on Windows 11

What is HEIC and Why Windows Doesn't Open It?

HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is a modern image format that Apple has been using in iOS since iOS 11 (2017). It's based on the HEVC (H.265) codec and provides better compression compared to JPG.

HEIC Advantages:

• Smaller file size — 50% smaller than JPG at the same quality
• Transparency support — like PNG, but more compact
• 16-bit color depth — vs 8-bit in JPG
• Live Photos storage — photo and video in one file

Why Windows Doesn't Support HEIC?

Windows 10 and 11 can open HEIC files, but require installing the free "HEIF Image Extensions" from Microsoft Store. Without it, you'll see an error:

"Windows can't open this file. Choose a program to open this file."

Many users prefer to convert HEIC to universal JPG so photos open everywhere without additional software.

Method 1: File Converter Pro (Recommended)

Best method for converting large batches of iPhone photos. Supports batch processing, works offline, preserves EXIF data.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Download File Converter Pro

   Install the app from Microsoft Store (free trial available).

2. Add HEIC files

   Launch File Converter Pro and drag HEIC photos into the program window. You can add an entire folder — the program supports batch conversion.

3. Select JPG format

   Choose JPG from the output formats list. Optionally adjust quality (recommended 90-95%).

4. Choose save folder

   Specify where to save converted files. By default, they're saved in the same folder as source HEIC files.

5. Click "Convert"

   Process takes a few seconds (depends on photo count). File Converter Pro processes multiple files simultaneously for maximum speed.

Advantages:

• Batch conversion of hundreds of files at once
• Works offline — your photos aren't uploaded to cloud
• Preserves EXIF data and metadata
• Quality and image size adjustment
• Supports other formats (PNG, WebP, BMP, TIFF)
• Fast processing thanks to multithreading

Method 2: Built-in Windows 11 Tools

Windows 11 can convert HEIC to JPG using built-in tools, but the process isn't very convenient.

Method 2.1: Via Photos App

1. Install "HEIF Image Extensions" from Microsoft Store (free)
2. Open HEIC file in Photos app
3. Click "Edit" → "Save a copy"
4. When saving, select JPG format

Method 2.2: Via Paint

1. Install "HEIF Image Extensions"
2. Open HEIC file in Paint (right-click → Open with → Paint)
3. Click "File" → "Save as" → "JPEG picture"

Disadvantages of this method:

• Need to convert each file manually
• No batch processing
• Time-consuming for many photos
• May lose quality when saving in Paint

Suitable for: Converting 1-2 photos when you don't want to install additional software.

Method 3: Online HEIC to JPG Converters

Many free online services exist for converting HEIC to JPG, but they have privacy concerns.

Popular Services:

• heictojpg.com
• convertio.co
• cloudconvert.com

Recommendation: Use online converters only for non-personal images (screenshots, illustrations) or if you have no other choice.

How to Change Photo Format on iPhone

If you don't want to convert HEIC to JPG every time, configure your iPhone to save photos in JPG format.

Method 1: Automatic Conversion on Transfer

1. Open Settings on iPhone
2. Scroll down to Photos
3. Under "TRANSFER TO MAC OR PC" select "Automatic"

Method 2: Completely Disable HEIC

1. Open Settings → Camera
2. Tap Formats
3. Select "Most Compatible" instead of "High Efficiency"

Comparison of HEIC to JPG Conversion Methods

Frequently Asked Questions