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Brondam's avatar
Brondam
Copper Contributor
Jun 02, 2026

Best HEIC Viewer - view heic files on Windows 11?

Hi all, A lot of photos from newer iPhones are saved in HEIC format instead of JPG or PNG. The image quality is good and the file size is smaller, but HEIC files are not always easy to view heic fil...
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Clarasfs's avatar
Clarasfs
Copper Contributor
Jun 02, 2026

When it comes to the HEIC viewer. There is actually a first-party Microsoft solution that is completely free—the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store. This is the most "native" way to enable HEIC viewing without installing a separate image viewer.

There is actually a first-party Microsoft solution that is completely free—the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store. This is the most "native" way to enable HEIC viewing without installing a separate image viewer.

How to get HEIC viewer:

1. Open the Microsoft Store on your Windows 11 PC

2. Search for "HEIF Image Extensions" (offered by Microsoft Corporation)

3. Click "Install" – it's free

Once installed, you can double-click any HEIC file and it will open in the built-in Photos app. File Explorer will also generate thumbnails for your HEIC images automatically.

One important catch: In some cases, you may also need the HEVC Video Extensions. Unlike the HEIF extension, that one may require a small purchase (around $0.99). However, many users report that the free HEIF extension alone works fine for basic viewing.