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.HEIC file extension

To open .HEIC files on Windows, install HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft Store and then open the file in Photos.

.heic files are high-efficiency images often found on iPhones. To open them, use compatible photo apps or convert them if necessary.

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Last updated: March 19, 2026 · Reviewed by Julian Stricker

What “reviewed” means on this page
  • Format fit: whether the “what is this file?” description plausibly matches common real-world use of the extension, including category, typical MIME types, and aliases.
  • Opening paths: whether Windows / macOS / Linux steps read plausibly for current OS dialogs and default apps. Not every step was tested on every OS version.
  • Security framing: whether risk notes match the extension class (for example executables vs plain data) and whether affiliate wording does not contradict the security section.
  • Sources and further reading: external links should point to vendors, standards bodies, or other primary references where possible; not every detail is individually sourced.
  • Limits: this is clarity and safety-messaging QA, not a guarantee that every statement is exhaustive or that every binary you download is harmless. Pages without “Reviewed by” have not been through this editorial pass yet.

Full methodology in the Imprint — The Imprint also states where AI is used and what that does—and does not—replace.

Open on your device

Choose your operating system for a dedicated step-by-step opening guide.

Convert .HEIC files in your browser

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How to open .HEIC files

Use these platform-specific instructions to open .HEIC files safely.

Windows

  1. Install the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store.
  2. Open the file using the Photos app.

Recommended software: Microsoft Photos · CopyTrans HEIC · IrfanView with plugins

Full Windows guide

Mac

  1. Open the file directly in Preview or Photos.
  2. Export to JPG or PNG if needed for sharing.

Recommended software: Preview · Apple Photos · Adobe Lightroom

Full Mac guide

Linux

  1. Use an application with libheif support.
  2. Convert using ImageMagick or heif-convert.
Full Linux guide

iOS

  1. Open directly in the Photos or Files app.
Full iOS guide

Android

  1. Use a modern gallery app like Google Photos.

Recommended software: Google Photos · Snapseed · Files by Google

Full Android guide

Security notes

  • Only download codecs and converters from reputable sources.
  • Avoid using untrusted online converters for sensitive images.
  • Regularly update your software to patch security vulnerabilities.

Can't open this file?

These are the most common causes and fixes when .HEIC files fail to open.

Common reasons

  • Incompatibility with older software
  • Conversion quality loss
  • Windows says "We can't open this file" or shows no thumbnails for HEIC photos
  • You want to stop your iPhone from creating HEIC files

Fix steps

  1. Update the software to the latest version if possible.
  2. Convert HEIC files to JPEG using a reliable converter.

Recover a deleted or lost .HEIC file

If the file was deleted by mistake or the drive was formatted, data recovery software may be able to get it back. Stop writing to that drive right away, because new data can overwrite what you want to recover.

MiniTool Power Data Recovery

Windows software that recovers deleted or lost files from PCs and external drives such as HDDs, SSDs, USB drives and memory cards, after deletion, formatting or a crash.

Wondershare Recoverit

Windows and Mac software that recovers deleted or lost files from computers and external drives such as HDDs, SSDs, USB drives and SD cards.

We may earn a commission when you use affiliate links. This supports our free file extension guides.

OS-specific troubleshooting

Convert .HEIC to other formats

Use conversion tools to change .HEIC files into formats your software supports.

What is a .HEIC file?

HEIC is a file format that uses High Efficiency Image Format (HEIF) containers and High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) compression to maintain high image quality while minimizing file size.

Background

The HEIC format was introduced by Apple with iOS 11 and macOS High Sierra to optimize photo storage. It quickly gained popularity due to its ability to store images at a fraction of the size of JPEGs without compromising quality. HEIC supports features like 16-bit color depth, transparency, and multiple image storage, making it ideal for live photos and burst shots. Despite its advantages, HEIC's adoption outside Apple ecosystems has been slower, leading to compatibility challenges on older or non-Apple devices. Users often convert HEIC files to more universally accepted formats like JPEG for sharing and editing.

Common MIME types: image/heic, image/heif

Further reading

Authoritative resources for more details on the .HEIC format.

Common .HEIC issues

Incompatibility with older software

Older software may not support HEIC files, leading to errors or inability to open.

  1. Update the software to the latest version if possible.
  2. Convert HEIC files to JPEG using a reliable converter.

Conversion quality loss

Converting HEIC to JPEG might result in quality degradation.

  1. Use high-quality converters to minimize loss.
  2. Keep the original HEIC file for archival purposes.

Windows says "We can't open this file" or shows no thumbnails for HEIC photos

Windows needs the HEIF image codec, and for some HEIC files also the HEVC codec, to read photos from recent iPhones.

  1. Install "HEIF Image Extensions" from the Microsoft Store; if the photo still does not open, add "HEVC Video Extensions".
  2. Restart the Photos app or File Explorer afterwards.
  3. Or convert the photos to JPG with our in-browser converter.

You want to stop your iPhone from creating HEIC files

HEIC saves space, but JPG opens everywhere. You can change this on the iPhone.

  1. Go to Settings → Camera → Formats and choose "Most Compatible" to shoot JPG.
  2. To convert automatically when transferring, choose Settings → Photos → Transfer to Mac or PC → "Automatic".

FAQ

Why can't I open HEIC files on my device?

Your device might lack the necessary software or codecs. Consider installing updates or using a converter.

Is HEIC better than JPEG?

HEIC typically offers better quality at smaller file sizes compared to JPEG.

Can I convert HEIC to other formats?

Yes, many tools and apps can convert HEIC to formats like JPEG or PNG.

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