How to Open a HEIC File: A Step-by-Step Guide for All Devices

Tech Oak Team09 mins
How to Open a HEIC File

Discover how to open HEIC files on Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android with our comprehensive guide. Learn easy methods for viewing and converting HEIC images to more accessible formats like JPEG.

HEIC, or High-Efficiency Image Container, is a new type of image that Apple Inc. developed. This results in better quality image compression than formats such as JPEG, meaning a user can save a lot of space while doing so. If you have come across a HEIC file and you are not sure how to open it or whether you should, then let us explain. In the proceedings of this guide, you will learn how to open HEIC files on different devices and operating software.

Understanding HEIC Files

Now, let’s first discover why the HEIC format is gradually gaining popularity as a technique on how to open HEIC files. HEIC files are essentially used on Apple devices, for instance, iPhones and iPads, to store images that were captured using the camera. They can contain more than one image in a file, and this is beneficial, for instance, when taking a burst photo or a Live Photo. HEIC uses less space for the same level of image quality and offers better quality at a somewhat smaller file size, ideal for storing high-definition images.

Opening HEIC Files on Windows

Using Windows 10 and 11

If you’re using Windows 10 or 11, Microsoft has added support for HEIC files, but you may need to install a couple of extensions first:

  1. Install the HEIF Image Extensions: Go to the Microsoft Store and type in “HEIF Image Extensions.” Install the app; it’s free.
  2. Open the HEIC File: Afterwards, once the extension is downloaded, you can double-click on the HEIC file, and it should open up on the Photos app.

Using Third-Party Software

If you prefer not to install extensions or you’re using an older version of Windows, you can use third-party software. Here are some popular options:

  • IrfanView: Light and simple-to-use image viewer software that supports HEIC files if the plugins are downloaded and installed.
  • VLC Media Player: Apart from regular media files, the VLC media player is also capable of nourishing the HEIC format.

To use these applications, simply download and install them, then open the HEIC file through the software interface.

Opening HEIC Files on macOS

If you’re on a Mac, opening HEIC files is straightforward:

  1. Use Preview: Double-click the HEIC file, and it should open in the Preview app by default. If it doesn’t, right-click the file, select “Open With,” and choose “Preview.”
  2. Use Photos App: You can also import HEIC files directly into the Photos app. Open the Photos app, then drag and drop the HEIC file into it.
  3. Convert to JPEG: If you want to convert a HEIC file to JPEG, open it in Preview, go to “File,” then select “Export.” Choose JPEG as the format and save the file.

Opening HEIC Files on Mobile Devices

If you own an iPhone or iPad, you probably work with HEIC files a lot as these devices export images in this format. To open HEIC files on your iOS device:

  1. Photos App: As you would normally, just select the HEIC file in the Photos view, and it will open fine.
  2. Sharing HEIC Files: Therefore, you will notice that if you transfer HEIC files to someone who uses non-Apple gadgets, he or she will not be able to open the files on their own. In that case, all the files can be converted to JPEG format before sharing or distribution among users.

Android Devices

While Android devices don’t natively support HEIC files, there are ways to open them:

  1. Use an App: Android applications can help you convert HEIC to JPEG directly on the device, such as Luma or HEIC to JPEG. These apps let you open and modify HEIC files into a format that can be easily processed by other programs.
  2. Convert HEIC Files: The other way out is to avoid opening HEIC files on Android by converting them to JPEG first before transferring them. This can be done by employing an online conversion tool or through the internet employing a personal computer.

Opening HEIC Files Online

If you don’t want to install any software, you can open HEIC files using online converters. Websites like CloudConvert or HEIC.online allows you to upload your HEIC file and convert it to JPEG or PNG format. Here’s how to do it:

  1. Visit the online converter’s website.
  2. Upload your HEIC file.
  3. Choose the output format (JPEG or PNG).
  4. Click on the convert button and wait for the process to complete.
  5. Download the converted file to your device.

Converting HEIC Files

If you frequently work with HEIC files and need compatibility with other devices, converting them to JPEG or PNG might be the best solution. Here’s a quick guide to converting HEIC files:

  1. Using Preview on macOS: Open the HEIC file in Preview, go to “File,” then “Export,” and select JPEG or PNG.
  2. Using Windows with Software: If you’re using third-party software like IrfanView, open the HEIC file and choose “Save As” to select your preferred format.
  3. Online Converters: As mentioned, sites like CloudConvert are also useful for quick conversions.

Conclusion

It may sound difficult to open a HEIC file, which is actually misleading, and in this article, we will discuss how to open them and convert them across devices. If you’re on Windows, macOS, iOS, or Android, there is good news: there are uncomplicated options. With the knowledge of how to open and convert HEIC files, we will be ready to have our high-quality images anytime we need them.

Also Read: DirectX 12 vs Vulkan: Understanding the Differences and Performance

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