How do I convert iphone HEIC photos to JPEG on Windows 11?

Converting HEIC files to JPG on Windows 11 using the official extensions is a smooth process once you have the right "plumbing" installed. Since Windows doesn't always come with HEIC support enabled by default, here is how to set it up and perform the conversion.

Two Steps to convert HEIC to JPG on Windows 11

1. Install the Necessary Extensions

Before the Photos app can understand HEIC files, you need two specific drivers from the Microsoft Store. Without these, the Photos app will likely show a "File not supported" error or a blank screen.

HEIF Image Extensions: This is usually free and allows Windows to read the HEIF container.

HEVC Video Extensions: Crucial Step. Most modern iPhones encode HEIC using the HEVC codec. While this extension sometimes costs $0.99 in the Microsoft Store, it is required for the Photos app to process and convert these images.

2. Convert Using the Photos App

Once the extensions are installed, the Photos app gains a built-in "Save As" feature that handles the conversion automatically.

Open the Image: Right-click your HEIC file and select Open with > Photos.

Enter the Edit/Save Menu: Click the three dots (...) at the top of the window or press Ctrl + S.

Choose "Save As": Select Save as from the dropdown menu.

• Change File Type:
• A file explorer window will pop up.
• In the Save as type dropdown at the bottom, change it from .heic to .jpg or .jpeg.

Finalize: Choose your destination folder and click Save.