Everything You Need to Know About HEIC Files on the iPhone, How to Convert Them, and Photo Phone Options

Kayla Williams
Oct 29
4 min read

In our digital world, the way we store and share images is vital. One file format that has made waves, particularly among Apple enthusiasts, is the HEIC format. This post will explore what HEIC files are, their pros and cons, and how to convert them to more commonly used formats. This post will also explore other image options you have on your iPhone to save your photos.

What is HEIC?

HEIC stands for High Efficiency Image Container. Introduced by Apple in 2017, alongside iOS 11, it is based on the HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) standard. This format allows for high-quality images at up to 50% smaller file sizes compared to traditional formats like JPEG. For example, a typical JPEG image might take up 5 MB, while the same image in HEIC could be around 2.5 MB.

HEIC can store multiple images in one file, making it perfect for live photos and burst mode shots. This feature not only conserves space but also keeps the quality intact.

Advantages of HEIC Files

HEIC files offer several benefits:

Space Efficiency: HEIC files substantially reduce image size without quality loss. With this format, you can save about twice as many photos on your device. For instance, if you normally store 1,000 JPEG photos, you can fit approximately 2,000 HEIC photos.
Advanced Features: HEIC supports features like transparency and 16-bit color depth, creating more vivid and diverse colors. This is essential for photographers and graphic designers who often require high-quality images.

Disadvantages of HEIC Files

While HEIC files have many advantages, they aren't without their issues:

Compatibility Challenges: Although Apple devices natively support HEIC, many platforms do not. If you try to share an HEIC file with a Windows user, for instance, they may struggle to open it unless they install additional software.
Risk of Quality Loss: When converting HEIC files to another format, you may encounter data loss. If not done carefully, some quality could diminish during the conversion process.

How to Convert HEIC Files

If you need to convert HEIC files to a more accessible format, several effective methods are available.

1. Using Built-in Features on Apple Devices

For Apple users, converting HEIC files to JPEG or PNG is simple:

Open the Photos app and select the HEIC images you want to convert.
Tap the Share button and choose “Save as JPEG” or “Export” to save them in your chosen format.

This method is user-friendly and helps maintain the original quality of your images.

2. Online Conversion Tools

Many online tools can convert HEIC files to other formats. Websites such as HEICtoJPEG.com and CloudConvert allow you to upload your HEIC files and quickly download them in JPEG or PNG format.

While these platforms are easy to use, be careful with sensitive images due to privacy concerns.

3. Desktop Software

For regular HEIC users, dedicated conversion software may be useful. Applications like iMazing HEIC Converter and Apowersoft HEIC Converter are popular options. They often provide batch conversion and customizable settings for image quality.

Download from iCloud to Windows PC

When you download your pictures from iCloud on your PC, the images will download save as JPEG images.

This is probably the easiest way to convert your HEIC images,

How to Open HEIC Files

If you encounter HEIC files and wish to open them without converting, multiple options exist:

1. On Windows

Windows 10 and later versions can open HEIC files, but you may need to install the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store to access this feature.

2. On Android

Most Android devices do not support HEIC natively. However, you can install third-party apps like Google Photos or HEIC Viewer to view these files.

Best Practices for Managing HEIC Files

To optimize your management of HEIC files, consider these recommendations:

Backup Your Files: Always keep a copy of your original HEIC files before conversion. This way, you maintain access to the highest quality images.
Check Compatibility: Before sharing HEIC files, confirm that the recipient's device can open them. If not, convert them to ensure they can appreciate your images.
Choose Quality Conversion Tools: Opt for reputable software to lessen the chances of data loss and ensure your images retain quality.

Other Image Formats on the iPhone and iPhone Storage Tips

JPEG is a widely used format that is also supported by the iPhone. It is known for:

Compatibility with most devices and software
Takes up more iPhone storage space

You can have your phone take these types of images versus the HEIC photos. Simply go into your settings on your iPhone and choose camera. Find Formats and click. At the top, there are two options for Camera Capture- High Efficiency and Most Compatible. You can choose Most Compatible and your images will now be taken and stored as JPEG images.

This type of camera capture will take up more iPhone storage on your phone, but there is a solution to this as well. You can save space on your iPhone by utilizing the iCloud to store your images.

To optimize iPhone photo storage, enable iCloud Photos and select "Optimize iPhone Storage" in Settings > [your name] > iCloud > Photos. This stores full-resolution photos in iCloud while keeping smaller, space-saving versions on your device. You can download your full resolution images from your iCloud account to your computer.

Apple automatically gives users 5 GB of free storage, but normally if you use your phone for all things picture taking, you need more than that. I recommend purchasing the 200 GB plan which is 2.99 a month.

Final Thoughts

HEIC files present a modern method for storing high-quality images while saving space. While they offer clear benefits, awareness of their drawbacks is crucial. Understanding how to manage and convert these files can significantly enhance your digital photography experience. Implement the tips discussed here to confidently navigate the world of HEIC files or JPEG images if you choose that file format on your iPhone.