Image Formats · 5 min read
What Is HEIC? Apple's Image Format Explained
Understand the HEIC image format, why iPhones use it, and how to convert HEIC files into JPG for better compatibility.
Updated: 2026-07-07
Quick Answer: What is HEIC?
HEIC (High-Efficiency Image Container) is a proprietary image format developed by Apple. It is the default format used for taking photos on iPhones and iPads. HEIC stores extremely high-quality photos at roughly half the file size of a standard JPG, making it incredible for saving storage space on mobile devices.
| Feature | HEIC | JPG |
|---|---|---|
| File Size | Very Small (Excellent Compression) | Medium to Large |
| Image Quality | Excellent (Retains extreme detail) | Good (Standard quality) |
| Color Depth | 16-bit (Billions of colors) | 8-bit (Millions of colors) |
| Transparency Support | Yes | No |
| Live Photos Support | Yes (Multiple images in one file) | No |
| Compatibility | Limited (Apple, Modern Windows) | Universal (Everything) |
The History of HEIC and HEIF
HEIC is actually a variant of HEIF (High-Efficiency Image File Format). Apple adopted this format in 2017 with the release of iOS 11. Before 2017, iPhones saved photos as JPGs. However, as iPhone cameras became more advanced (shooting in 4K, capturing immense detail, and supporting Live Photos), users were running out of storage space far too quickly.
By switching to HEIC, which is based on the HEVC (H.265) video compression standard, Apple solved the storage crisis. Users could suddenly store twice as many photos on a 64GB iPhone without losing any visual quality.
HEIC vs JPG: Which is Better?
From a purely technical standpoint, HEIC is vastly superior to JPG.
HEIC supports 16-bit deep color, meaning it can capture far more shades of a sunset or a colorful landscape than JPG, which is limited to 8-bit color. HEIC also uses advanced compression algorithms to shrink the file size down to 50% of an equivalent JPG. Finally, HEIC can store image edits (like crop or rotation) non-destructively, meaning you can revert the image back to its original state later.
However, from a practical standpoint, JPG wins on compatibility. You can open a JPG on any device, upload it to any website, and view it on a computer from 1995. HEIC struggles outside of the Apple ecosystem.
When Should You Use HEIC?
Use HEIC when you are capturing and storing memories on your personal Apple devices.
- Taking photos on your iPhone or iPad.
- Storing photos in iCloud to save subscription costs.
- Capturing Apple "Live Photos".
- Editing photos heavily in iOS apps (taking advantage of 16-bit color).
If you exist entirely within the Apple ecosystem (using a Mac, an iPhone, and an Apple TV), you will likely never notice a downside to HEIC.
When Should You NOT Use HEIC?
You should avoid sending or uploading HEIC files when dealing with non-Apple systems.
- Uploading to Web Forms: Many government, school, and job application websites will reject HEIC files.
- Sharing with Android or Windows Users: Unless they have modern, updated devices, they might not be able to open the photo.
- Email Attachments: To ensure the recipient can open the image, JPG is always safer.
- Web Development: Browsers do not support HEIC natively. Use WebP or JPG for websites.
How to Open HEIC Files on Windows
If you transfer photos from your iPhone to your Windows PC, you might be greeted with a blank icon that refuses to open. Windows 10 and Windows 11 support HEIC, but you must download the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store.
Even with the extension, many Windows-based photo editors and older software will refuse to import the HEIC file. The fastest and most reliable solution is to convert the file.
How to Open HEIC Files on Android
Modern Android devices (running Android 10 or newer) can open HEIC files natively using Google Photos. However, older Android devices cannot. If you are texting an iPhone photo to an Android user, your iPhone usually converts it to JPG automatically.
How to Stop Your iPhone from Shooting in HEIC
If the compatibility issues are too frustrating, you can force your iPhone to shoot in standard JPG format.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap on Camera.
- Tap on Formats.
- Change the selection from "High Efficiency" to "Most Compatible".
Note: Changing this setting means your photos will take up significantly more space on your phone and in iCloud.
Need to Share an iPhone Photo?
Don't let compatibility issues slow you down. Convert your HEIC photos to universal JPG format online instantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does converting HEIC to JPG ruin the quality?
No. While JPG does not support the 16-bit color depth of HEIC, converting HEIC to a high-quality JPG retains almost all of the visual fidelity. To the naked eye, the JPG will look identical to the original HEIC.
Is HEIC an Apple-only format?
HEIC was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG), not Apple. However, Apple is the only major tech company that adopted it universally as their default format, which is why it is almost exclusively associated with iPhones.
Why are some of my iPhone photos JPG and others HEIC?
If you share a photo via AirDrop, Mail, or certain social media apps, your iPhone often converts the HEIC to JPG automatically behind the scenes to ensure the receiver can open it. If you plug your phone in via USB, you get the raw HEIC files.
Can Photoshop open HEIC files?
Yes, modern versions of Adobe Photoshop (and Lightroom) on both Mac and Windows can open HEIC files natively, provided your operating system is updated.
How do I convert HEIC to JPG for free?
You can use Easy Converter Tool! Our HEIC to JPG tool is entirely free, requires no software installation, and processes your files securely and instantly in your browser or on our secure cloud.