HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is the default photo format used by Apple devices such as iPhone and Mac. While HEIC offers better image compression and smaller file sizes without sacrificing quality, it is not always compatible with older software, websites, and certain Windows applications. This often creates problems when sharing photos or uploading images online.
Converting HEIC into JPG ensures broader compatibility across devices and platforms. JPG is universally supported, making it the preferred format for email attachments, social media uploads, and general file sharing. The good news is that you can convert HEIC to JPG directly on iPhone, Mac, and Windows PC using built-in tools without installing third-party software in most cases.
This guide explains how to convert HEIC into JPG on iPhone, Mac, and PC using safe and reliable methods.
How to Convert HEIC into JPG on iPhone, Mac, and PC
Follow the section relevant to your device.
How to Convert HEIC to JPG on iPhone
You can either convert photos manually or change camera settings to avoid HEIC altogether.
1. Convert HEIC to JPG Using the Files App
- Open the Photos app.
- Select the HEIC image.
- Tap Share.
- Choose Copy Photo.
- Open the Files app.
- Navigate to a folder.
- Tap and hold inside the folder.
- Select Paste.
The pasted image will automatically be converted to JPG.
2. Convert HEIC to JPG by Changing Camera Settings
If you want future photos saved as JPG:
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap Camera.
- Select Formats.
- Choose Most Compatible.
New photos will now be saved in JPG format instead of HEIC.
How to Convert HEIC to JPG on Mac
Mac supports HEIC natively and allows easy conversion using Preview.
1. Convert HEIC to JPG Using Preview
- Locate the HEIC image in Finder.
- Double-click the image to open it in Preview.
- Click File.
- Select Export.
- Choose JPEG from the format dropdown.
- Adjust quality if needed.
- Click Save.
The file will now be saved as a JPG image.
2. Batch Convert Multiple HEIC Files on Mac
- Select multiple HEIC images in Finder.
- Right-click the selection.
- Choose Quick Actions.
- Click Convert Image.
- Select JPEG.
- Confirm conversion.
This converts multiple files at once.
How to Convert HEIC to JPG on Windows PC
Windows 11 can open HEIC files with proper extensions, but conversion requires built-in tools or small adjustments.
1. Install HEIF Image Extensions (If Needed)
- Open Microsoft Store.
- Search for HEIF Image Extensions.
- Install the extension if not already installed.
- Restart your PC.
This allows Windows to open HEIC files.
2. Convert HEIC to JPG Using Photos App
- Right-click the HEIC file.
- Select Open with.
- Choose Photos.
- Click the three-dot menu.
- Select Save as.
- Choose JPEG (.jpg) format.
- Click Save.
The image will be saved as a JPG file.
3. Convert HEIC to JPG Using Paint
- Right-click the HEIC file.
- Open it with Paint.
- Click File.
- Select Save as.
- Choose JPEG picture.
- Save the file.
Paint provides a quick offline conversion option.
How to Automatically Convert HEIC When Transferring from iPhone to PC
You can configure your iPhone to convert photos automatically during transfer.
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap Photos.
- Under Transfer to Mac or PC, select Automatic.
When transferring photos via USB, they will be converted to JPG automatically.
Final Thoughts
HEIC is efficient and space-saving, but JPG remains the most widely compatible image format. Fortunately, converting HEIC into JPG on iPhone, Mac, and Windows PC is simple using built-in tools like Preview, Photos, and system settings.