How To Open A HEIC File In Windows 11: A Step-by-Step Guide

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5 min. read

Published on October 15, 2025

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HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is a modern image format developed by Apple that offers superior compression and image quality compared to traditional formats like JPEG. While HEIC is the standard format for photos taken on iPhones and iPads, Windows 11 doesn’t natively support it out of the box. This can be frustrating when you’re trying to view or edit these images on your computer.

Fortunately, opening HEIC files in Windows 11 is a straightforward process. This guide provides a step-by-step approach to ensure you can easily view and work with HEIC images on your Windows 11 machine. We’ll cover the necessary software and settings to get you up and running in no time.

How Do I Open HEIC Files on Windows 11?

Installing the HEIF Image Extensions

The most common method to open HEIC files is by installing the necessary extensions from the Microsoft Store.

Open the Microsoft Store: Click on the Microsoft Store icon on your taskbar, or search for it in the Start Menu.
Search for “HEIF Image Extensions”: Type “HEIF Image Extensions” into the search bar and press Enter.
Select the HEIF Image Extensions: Click on the “HEIF Image Extensions” app, which should be the first result. It’s usually offered by Microsoft Corporation.
Install the Extension: Click the “Install” button. The extension is free, and the installation should only take a few moments.

Installing the HEVC Video Extensions (If Needed)

In some cases, you might also need the HEVC Video Extensions, even if you’re only dealing with images. This is especially true if you encounter errors after installing the HEIF Image Extensions.

Search for “HEVC Video Extensions”: In the Microsoft Store, search for “HEVC Video Extensions”.
Select the HEVC Video Extensions: Choose the “HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer”.
Purchase and Install: This extension typically costs a small fee (usually around $0.99). Purchase and install it.

Using a Third-Party HEIC Viewer or Converter

If you prefer not to use the Microsoft Store or want more advanced features, several third-party HEIC viewers and converters are available.

Download and Install a HEIC Viewer: Search online for a reputable HEIC viewer or converter. Popular options include CopyTrans HEIC for Windows (free for personal use) or iMazing HEIC Converter (also free).
Open the HEIC File: Once installed, simply open the HEIC file with the newly installed program. The program will handle the decoding and display the image.
Convert the HEIC File (Optional): If you need to convert the HEIC file to a more widely supported format like JPEG, most HEIC viewers and converters offer this functionality. Look for an option like “Convert to JPEG” or “Save As” and choose your desired format.

Changing iPhone Camera Settings to Capture JPEGs

To avoid future compatibility issues, you can configure your iPhone to capture photos in the more universally supported JPEG format.

Open the Settings App: On your iPhone, open the Settings app.
Navigate to Camera Settings: Scroll down and tap on “Camera.”
Tap on “Formats”: In the Camera settings, tap on “Formats.”
Choose “Most Compatible”: Select “Most Compatible.” This will ensure that your iPhone captures photos in JPEG format going forward. Note that this might slightly reduce image quality compared to HEIC.

Tips for Working with HEIC Files

Check for Updates: Keep your HEIF Image Extensions and HEVC Video Extensions updated through the Microsoft Store to ensure compatibility with the latest HEIC versions.
Use Cloud Storage: Cloud storage services like Google Drive and Dropbox typically support HEIC files, allowing you to view them directly within your browser.
Consider Batch Conversion: If you have a large number of HEIC files, use a batch conversion tool to convert them to JPEG format quickly and efficiently.

HEIC vs. JPEG: Key Differences

Feature	HEIC	JPEG
Compression	More efficient, smaller file sizes	Less efficient, larger file sizes
Image Quality	Higher quality at the same file size	Lower quality at the same file size
Compatibility	Limited native support; requires extensions	Widely supported across devices and platforms
Color Depth	Supports 16-bit color	Supports 8-bit color
Transparency	Supports transparency	Does not natively support transparency

Viewing HEIC Files Made Easy

Opening HEIC files on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a headache. By installing the necessary extensions or using a third-party tool, you can seamlessly view and manage these images. Adjusting your iPhone’s camera settings can also prevent future compatibility issues.

FAQ

Why can’t I open HEIC files on Windows 11? Windows 11 doesn’t natively support HEIC files without the HEIF Image Extensions.

Do I need to pay to open HEIC files on Windows 11? The HEIF Image Extensions are free, but the HEVC Video Extensions may require a small purchase.

Will converting HEIC to JPEG reduce image quality? Yes, converting from HEIC to JPEG can result in some loss of image quality, especially if the JPEG compression is set too high.

Can I convert HEIC files to JPEG without losing quality? While some quality loss is inevitable, using high-quality conversion settings and reputable converters can minimize the impact.

Are there any free HEIC converters available? Yes, several free HEIC converters are available online, such as iMazing HEIC Converter and CopyTrans HEIC for Windows.