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How to convert HEIC to JPG on Windows
iPhones save photos as HEIC, which Windows can’t always open. To convert them, open Docmend’s free HEIC to JPG tool, choose the photos and click Convert to JPG; nothing is uploaded. To open HEIC in the Photos app instead, Microsoft says to install HEIF Image Extensions and HEVC Video Extensions.
Docmend (docmend.app), a Chrome extension and free document tools site, makes the HEIC to JPG tool used below.
Why your iPhone photos are .heic
Apple added HEIF (High Efficiency Image File Format) photos in iOS 11. Apple says HEIF compresses better than JPEG, so photos use less storage at the same visual quality. Windows doesn’t always include the support it needs to open them, so you may see a message in Photos that you need an extension.
Convert HEIC to JPG in your browser
This way needs no install and works on Windows 11, Windows 10 and any other computer with a modern browser.
- Open HEIC to JPG and choose the .heic photos. You can pick several at once.
- Pick the quality.
- Click Convert to JPG and save the files.
The first run takes a few seconds while the HEIC reader loads. The photos never leave your computer.
Open and save HEIC with the Photos app
Microsoft’s fix is to install two extensions from the Microsoft Store and then restart the Photos app:
- HEIF Image Extensions, which Microsoft lists as free
- HEVC Video Extensions, which Microsoft lists at $0.99
Microsoft says you need both, even if you only plan to use photos. After that, Photos can open your HEIC files. The extensions help you view the photos; to get JPG copies to send or upload, use the browser method above.
Stop the iPhone from sending HEIC
You can fix the problem at the source in two ways, both from Apple’s support page:
- Take new photos as JPEG: open Settings > Camera > Formats and tap Most Compatible. All new photos use JPEG. Photos already on your phone stay HEIC.
- Convert when you copy to a PC: Apple says photos imported over USB may be converted to JPEG. The setting is in Settings > Apps > Photos; choose Keep Originals only if you want to keep HEIC.
Apple also notes that AirDrop, Messages or email may send a more compatible format, such as JPEG, when the receiving device doesn’t support HEIF.
Which way should you choose?
For a few photos right now, use the browser tool. If you get HEIC files every week, install the extensions or switch the iPhone to Most Compatible. Keep in mind that Most Compatible photos take more space on your phone.
Before you share the JPG
Photos from a phone can include the place where you took them. Read how to remove the location from a photo before you post it. If a form needs a smaller file, use Photo resize in KB.
Common questions
Why can’t Windows open my HEIC photos?
HEIC photos need the HEIF Image Extensions, and Microsoft says you also need the HEVC Video Extensions. Without them, the Photos app says you need an extension to use the file.
Is there a free way to convert HEIC to JPG on Windows?
Yes. Docmend’s HEIC to JPG tool is free and runs in your browser. Microsoft also lists HEIF Image Extensions as free, but it says you need HEVC Video Extensions too, which it lists at $0.99.
Can I convert many HEIC files at once?
Yes. Docmend’s HEIC to JPG lets you choose several .heic photos and convert them together.
Does converting HEIC to JPG lose quality?
JPG compresses the photo again, so pick a high quality setting if you plan to edit or print it. Docmend’s HEIC to JPG lets you choose the quality before you convert.
How do I make my iPhone save photos as JPG?
Open Settings > Camera > Formats and tap Most Compatible. Apple says all new photos then use JPEG. Choose High Efficiency to switch back.
Sources
- Apple Support: Using HEIF or HEVC media on Apple devices, checked 2026-10-21
- Microsoft Support: Photos app error “Can’t view this file type”, checked 2026-10-21
- Docmend image tool: HEIC to JPG
- Docmend homepage: tools and pricing