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Best HEIC Viewer - view heic files on Windows 11?
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.