How to Open HEIC Files on Windows 10/11

Why Can't Windows Open HEIC Files Natively?

HEIC is Apple's proprietary image format based on HEVC/H.265 compression. Windows does not include built-in HEIC support because the HEVC codec requires licensing fees. Microsoft offers the HEIF Image Extensions package as a paid add-on ($0.99), but many users find it easier to convert HEIC files to a universally compatible format like JPEG or PNG using our free online converter — which works entirely in your browser, no installation needed.

Method 1: Use Our Free HEIC Converter (Easiest)

The fastest way to access HEIC files on Windows is to convert them to JPEG or PNG. Our converter runs entirely in your browser — no software to install, no files uploaded to any server. Simply drag and drop your HEIC files, select JPEG or PNG as output, and download the converted files. This method works on any Windows 10 or 11 device with a modern browser like Chrome, Edge, or Firefox.

Method 2: Install HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft Store

Microsoft sells the HEIF Image Extensions for $0.99 from the Microsoft Store. Once installed, Windows Photos app and File Explorer can display HEIC thumbnails. You may also need the HEVC Video Extensions (also $0.99) for the decoder. Note that while this lets you VIEW HEIC files, editing and converting still requires additional software.

Method 3: Install CopyTrans HEIC for Windows (Free Option)

CopyTrans HEIC is a free third-party plugin that adds HEIC support to Windows. After installing, you can view HEIC thumbnails in File Explorer and open files in Windows Photos. It also integrates with Paint and other Windows imaging tools. The plugin is lightweight and doesn't affect system performance.

Method 4: Convert All HEIC Files in Batch

If you have dozens or hundreds of HEIC files transferred from an iPhone, batch conversion is the most efficient approach. Our batch converter lets you select multiple files at once, process them in parallel (up to 2 concurrent conversions), and download them individually or as a single ZIP archive — all locally in your browser.

Method 5: Use Third-Party Image Viewers

Several free image viewers support HEIC files:

• IrfanView + HEIC plugin — lightweight, fast, supports batch conversion
• XnView MP — cross-platform, supports 500+ formats including HEIC
• GIMP + libheif plugin — open-source image editor with HEIC support
• Adobe Photoshop — HEIC support requires the HEIF extension plugin