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How to open HEIC files on Windows

Updated 5 November 2026

Windows needs Microsoft’s HEIF Image Extension, plus the HEVC Video Extensions, to show HEIC photos. Install both from the Microsoft Store, or convert the photos to JPG, which every Windows app can open.

Why HEIC photos do not open

HEIC is the format iPhone uses for photos by default. The image inside is compressed with HEVC, so Windows needs extra support to read it. Without that support, Windows apps may not be able to open the photo.

Add HEIC support from the Microsoft Store

  1. Open the Microsoft Store app.
  2. Search for HEIF Image Extension and install it.
  3. Search for HEVC Video Extensions and install it. Microsoft says it is needed to view images stored in HEIF files.
  4. Open the photo again.
Try it free HEIC to JPG Open iPhone photos anywhere.

Or convert the photos to JPG

If you only need to view or send a few photos, converting is quicker. Use the free HEIC to JPG converter on this website, one photo at a time, with nothing uploaded. For many photos, convert them on your iPhone with Formatly before you copy them to the computer.

Avoid the problem next time

On iPhone, open Settings, tap Camera, then Formats, and choose Most Compatible: new photos are saved as JPEG. When you import photos to a computer, iPhone can also convert them to JPEG, unless Keep Originals is chosen in Settings, Apps, Photos.

Questions and answers

Can Windows 11 open HEIC files?
Yes, once the HEIF Image Extension and the HEVC Video Extensions are installed from the Microsoft Store.
Is it safe to use an online HEIC converter?
Many online converters upload your photo to a server. The converter on this website works inside your browser, so your photo never leaves your device.
Do I need to convert every photo?
No. With the extensions installed, Windows can open HEIC photos directly. Convert when you send photos to someone or upload them to a site that does not accept HEIC.

Source: Apple Support: Using HEIF or HEVC media on Apple devices, Microsoft Store: HEIF Image Extension. Last checked 5 November 2026

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