Converting HEIC Files to JPEG/PNG for Windows

This user guide provides step-by-step instructions for converting HEIC (High Efficiency Image Format) files—commonly used by iPhones and some Android devices—into more widely compatible formats like JPEG or PNG. It includes methods for both iOS and Android users to change camera settings to prevent future HEIC files.

What is HEIC?

HEIC (High Efficiency Image Coding) is the default image format for iPhones and iPads running iOS 11 and later. While it offers better compression and quality, it’s not natively supported by many Windows applications.

Change phone Settings to Save Photos as JPEG - iOS

 

Why do this?

By default, iPhones use the HEIC format to save space. But if you want your photos to be easily viewable on Windows without converting them, you can switch to JPEG.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
2. Scroll down and tap Camera.
3. Tap Formats.
4. Select Most Compatible.

This setting ensures that new photos will be saved as JPEG instead of HEIC.

Change phone Settings to Save Photos as JPEG - Android

Why do this?

Some newer Android phones (especially Samsung and Google Pixel) also use HEIC/HEIF for better compression. To ensure your photos are easily viewable on Windows, you can switch to JPEG.

 

Step-by-Step Instructions (Samsung Galaxy Example)

1. Open the Camera app.
2. Tap the gear icon ⚙️ (Settings) in the top-left or top-right corner.
3. Scroll down to Picture formats or Advanced picture options.
4. Toggle off High Efficiency Pictures (HEIF) or select JPEG as the default format.

Note: The exact menu names may vary slightly depending on your Android version and device brand.

 

Step-by-Step Instructions (Google Pixel Example)

1. Open the Camera app.
2. Tap the Settings gear ⚙️.
3. Go to Advanced.
4. Find Store videos efficiently or HEVC/HEIF format and toggle it off.