Forum Discussion
Does a built-in heic converter feature that comes with Windows 11?
I am a very happy users after switching from Windows 10 to Windows 11 for my Dell laptop. The new design and search feature are better than Windows 10. However, I come across an issue today. I have hundreds of heic photos saved from my iPhone. I can't open the heic images with the photos app.
Has Windows 11 comes with a free heic converter feature so that I can convert heic to jpg or png for editing and viewing in Windows 11? If this feature is available in Windows, please kindly share me how to enable it.
12 Replies
- EommySilver Contributor
I suggesting use the HEIF Image Extensions to view and convert heic images in Windows 11 and Windows 10 PC.
The HEIF Image Extensions is a codec package from Microsoft that enables Windows 11 (and earlier versions like Windows 10) to view and work with HEIF files, which include HEIC (High Efficiency Image Coding) images, a commonly used format for photos on iPhones and other devices.
- Open the Microsoft Store from your Windows Start Menu.
- Search for HEIF Image Extensions.
- Click Get to install the extension. It’s free, but you'll need to be signed in with a Microsoft account.
- Once installed, your Windows system will recognize HEIC images and work as heic converter in Windows PC, and you’ll be able to open them in apps like Photos or Paint.
Use Cases:
1. View HEIC Photos: If you've transferred photos from an iPhone to your Windows PC, they are likely stored in the HEIC format. Installing the HEIF Image Extensions allows you to view those photos without needing to convert them to a more common format like JPEG.2. Edit HEIC Images: With this extension, you can edit HEIC images using apps like Microsoft Paint, Photos, or third-party photo editors that support HEIF.
3. Convert HEIC to JPG/PNG: If you need to convert HEIC images to formats like JPEG or PNG, you can use tools like the Photos app, Paint, or third-party converters.
Limitations:
The HEIF Image Extensions are specifically for image files. For video files in HEVC/HEVC-based formats (like .hevc or .h265 videos), you’ll need the HEVC Video Extensions (which may require a paid license).Batch Conversion: If you need to batch convert HEIC images to JPEG or other formats, the HEIF Image Extensions don’t provide batch processing features, so you'll need a third-party heic converter for that.
- NguyenaisBronze Contributor
As of Windows 11, there isn't a dedicated built-in HEIC converter tool specifically designed to batch convert HEIC (High Efficiency Image Coding) files to other formats like JPEG or PNG. However, Windows 11 does offer several built-in methods that allow you to handle and convert HEIC files to JPG or PNG without needing third-party software.
1. Using the Photos App
The Photos app in Windows 11 can open HEIC files (provided you have the necessary codecs installed) and allows you to save them in a different format:- Right-click the HEIC file, select Open with, and choose Photos.
- Once the image is open in Photos, click on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner and
- Choose JPEG from the available formats and save the file.
Note: This method works well for individual files but isn't ideal for batch conversions.
2. Using Paint
Windows 11's Paint application can also be used to convert HEIC files to JPG or PNG:- Launch Paint from the Start menu.
- In Paint, go to File > Open and select your HEIC image.
- Go to File > Save as and choose JPEG picture. Save the file in your desired location.
While Windows 11 doesn't offer a dedicated HEIC converter tool, its built-in applications like Photos and Paint provide basic conversion capabilities for individual files.