How to Open HEIC Files on Windows

I’m sure you are frustrated enough with these problems of unfamiliar file formats. Don’t worry; I won’t bother you anymore with explaining the situation. Let’s just get into how you can open HEIC files on Windows easily. 

In this article, I’ll show you two different methods of solving this problem step-by-step. Before that, let’s take a quick look at what HEIC files are and their use.   

What are HEIC Files? Understanding HEIC Format

So, what exactly are these HEIC files? Well, HEIC stands for High-Efficiency Image Container, and it’s a file format developed by Apple. 

To put it simply, It’s a way to store high-quality images using advanced compression techniques. This means you get stunning images without the hefty file sizes. You might have encountered these files when snapping photos on your iPhone or iPad, as Apple adopted this format to save space and maintain image quality.

Why Use HEIC Files? Benefits of HEIC Format

Before we jump into opening these files, let’s talk about why the HEIC format is worth using. The main advantage is that it balances the image quality and file size strikingly. Using this format keeps your photos crystal-clear without using up all your storage space. 

In addition, with the advancement of  Windows, it’s becoming even more crucial to know how to access these files on your PC.

Different Methods You Can Use: 

Here are the two methods you can try to open your HEIC files on Windows.

Method 1: Using Photos App – Your Step-by-Step Guide

You might not know it, but Windows has got your back when it comes to opening HEIC files. The Photos app is your trusty companion here. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be admiring your HEIC images in no time:

• Launch the Photos App: Type “Photos” in the Windows search bar and click on the app.
• Open the Settings: Next, click on the three dots at the top right corner, then select Settings.
• Enable HEIC Support: Scroll down and toggle on the option that says “Open HEIC files with Photos”.
• View Your Images: Now, simply open your HEIC file, and the Photos app will take care of the rest.

Method 2: Using Online Converters – Quick and Easy Solution

If you don’t want to install new apps, don’t worry. You can use online converters for your convenience. These tools help to convert HEIC files to more common formats like JPEG or PNG. Here’s how:

• Find a Converter: Search for a reliable HEIC to JPEG/PNG online converter.
• Upload Your HEIC File: Usually, it’s as simple as dragging and dropping your file onto the website.
• Choose Output Format: Select your desired output format (JPEG/PNG).
• Convert and Download: Hit the “Convert” button, and once it’s done, download your converted file.

Conclusion

Opening HEIC files on your Windows is not a big deal if you use these methods. With the Photos app or a quick online conversion, you can easily open your HEIC files. So, use these ways and enjoy those stunning shots without worrying about storage space.

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