HEIC (High Efficiency Image Format) is an image format developed by Apple to replace the older JPEG format. However, it is not natively supported on Windows, so users need to install a HEIC viewer or converter on your Windows computer to open and convert HEIC files. Apple introduced the HEIC file format in 2015.
Here are the steps to open HEIC files on Windows:
- Locate a HEIC file in File Explorer and double-click on it.
- If the file doesn’t open in the Photos app, you can right-click it and select “Open With > Photos.”
- If the Photos app prompts you to download the HEIF Image Extension, click the “Download and install it now” link to get it for free from the Microsoft Store.
- When you’re asked if you want to switch apps, select “Yes,” and then click “Install” to download and install the HEIF Image Extensions.
- Once installed, you’ll be able to view HEIC files in the Photos app like any other image format, and File Explorer will generate thumbnails for your HEIC image files.
However, HEIC files may not be supported on all devices or platforms, especially older devices and software versions. In such cases, the files may need to be converted to a more compatible format like JPEG before they can be viewed or shared.
Here are some of the ways to convert HEIC files on Windows:
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Install a HEIC viewer or converter
There are many third-party HEIC viewer or converter options available for Windows, but one of the most popular is the “HEIC Image Viewer” app. You can download and install it from the Microsoft Store or other third-party websites. Another option is the free online HEIC converter website called “cloudconvert.com.”
Open the HEIC file in the HEIC viewer or converter
Once you’ve installed a HEIC viewer or converter,right-click on the HEIC file you want to open and select “Open With” and choose the HEIC viewer or converter you installed. This should allow you to view the HEIC image.
Convert the HEIC file to JPEG or PNG format
If you want to convert the HEIC file to a more widely supported format, like JPEG or PNG, then you can use the HEIC viewer or converter to do so. Most converters will have an option to convert the HEIC file to a different format, so simply follow the instructions provided in the software to convert the file.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you should be able to easily open and convert HEIC files on your Windows PC.
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