How to Convert HEIC Photos to JPG on Any Device
A step-by-step walkthrough of native camera settings, operating system converters, and private in-browser conversions without uploading.
If you take photos on an iPhone or iPad, you have likely encountered the HEIC format. Apple adopted HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) to save storage space, but many Windows computers, Android phones, online application portals, and photo printing services still refuse to open or accept HEIC files.
This guide covers every reliable method to convert your HEIC photos to standard JPG files, from native device settings to private, in-browser conversion.
Method 1: Change iPhone Camera Settings to Capture JPG by Default
If you frequently transfer photos to a Windows PC or upload to websites that reject HEIC, you can tell your iPhone to shoot in JPG natively. Open your Settings app, scroll down to Camera, select Formats, and choose Most Compatible instead of High Efficiency.
Going forward, your iPhone will capture images in standard JPEG format. Keep in mind that JPEG photos will use slightly more storage space on your device.
Method 2: Converting HEIC to JPG on Windows
Windows 10 and 11 do not include native HEVC video and image decoding out of the box. While you can purchase the HEVC Video Extensions from the Microsoft Store, an easier and free method is using an in-browser converter like FormatLab.
Because our tool decodes the image using WebAssembly right inside your browser, you do not need to install third party desktop software or upload your private photos to remote cloud servers.
Method 3: Native Conversion on macOS
Mac computers running modern macOS versions can convert HEIC photos natively using the built-in Preview app or Quick Actions. Right-click any HEIC file in Finder, choose Quick Actions, and select Convert Image to export a JPEG copy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will converting HEIC to JPG reduce photo quality?
At recommended quality settings of 85 to 90 percent, quality differences are virtually invisible to the human eye.
Why do Windows computers fail to open HEIC files natively?
Windows requires a proprietary HEVC codec extension that is not pre-installed on many system builds.
Is it safe to convert private photos with in-browser tools?
Yes, provided the tool executes locally without uploading. FormatLab processes files 100% on your device.
What happens to Live Photos when converting to JPG?
The still photo frame is converted into a standard JPG, while the secondary short video clip is omitted.
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