HEIC files, also known as HEIF (High Efficiency Image Format) files, are a newer image file format that was introduced with the release of iOS 11 in 2017. HEIC files are known for their small file size and high quality, making them a popular choice for storing and sharing photos on devices running iOS or macOS. However, not all devices and software support HEIC files, which can cause issues when trying to view or edit them. In these cases, it may be necessary to convert HEIC files to JPEG, a more widely supported file format.
One of the main benefits of HEIC files is their small file size, which allows them to take up less space on your device or cloud storage. This is possible because HEIC files use advanced compression techniques to reduce the size of the file while still maintaining a high level of image quality. This means that you can store more photos on your device without running out of space, or easily share photos online without worrying about file size restrictions.
Another advantage of HEIC files is their high quality. Because they use advanced compression techniques, HEIC files are able to retain more detail and color information than JPEG files of the same size. This makes them ideal for preserving the quality of your photos, especially when taking high-resolution photos with modern smartphones.
Despite these benefits, HEIC files are not as widely supported as JPEG files. Many devices, especially older ones, may not be able to display or edit HEIC files. This can be a problem if you want to share photos with someone using a device or software that doesn’t support HEIC files. In these cases, you may need to convert HEIC files to JPEG in order to view or edit them.
There are several ways to convert HEIC files to JPEG, depending on your needs and the tools you have available. Here are a few options:
- Using a HEIC to JPEG converter: There are many online tools and software programs that allow you to convert HEIC files to JPEG. These tools are usually easy to use and allow you to convert multiple files at once. Some popular HEIC to JPEG converters include iMazing HEIC Converter, Aconvert, and Online-Convert.
- Using a photo editor: Many photo editing software programs, such as Adobe Photoshop and GIMP, can open and save HEIC files. If you have one of these programs installed on your computer, you can use it to open a HEIC file and save it as a JPEG file.
- Using your operating system: If you’re using a device running macOS or Windows 10, you can use the built-in preview software to open and save HEIC files as JPEGs. On macOS, you can simply right-click on the HEIC file and select “Export” to save it as a JPEG. On Windows 10, you can open the HEIC file in the Photos app and use the “Save as” option to save it as a JPEG.
- Using iCloud: If you have iCloud enabled on your iOS device, you can use it to automatically convert HEIC files to JPEG when you upload them to iCloud. To do this, go to the iCloud settings on your device and enable the “iCloud Photo Library” option. This will automatically convert HEIC files to JPEG when you upload them to iCloud, making it easy to share them with other devices and software that don’t support HEIC files.
JPG vs HEIC
While HEIC files offer several benefits over their .jpg counterparts, including smaller file size and support for advanced photo features, they may not be compatible with all devices and software. If you need to view or edit HEIC files on a device or software that doesn’t support them, you can use one of the methods described above to convert the files to .jpg. Keep in mind that converting HEIC files to .jpg may result in some loss of quality, as the advanced compression techniques used in HEIC files are not supported in .jpg. However, the loss of quality is usually minimal and may not be noticeable to the average user.
By converting HEIC files to .jpg, you can ensure that you can view and edit your photos on any device or software, making it easier to share them with others. It’s important to weigh the benefits of the .heic format against the need for compatibility when deciding which format is best for your needs. Whether you choose .heic or .jpg, both formats have their pros and cons, and the right choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences.
Why HEIC?
If you’ve recently switched to an Apple device, you may have noticed that your photos are now being saved in the .heic format. This stands for High Efficiency Image Container, and it’s been the default photo format for Apple devices since the introduction of iOS 11 in 2017.
So why did Apple switch to this format? Simply put, the .heic format is more efficient than its predecessor, the .jpg format. It allows images to be saved in a smaller file size while maintaining the same level of quality. This means that you can store more photos on your device, and they’ll take up less space when you’re backing them up to the cloud.
In addition to its smaller file size, the .heic format also supports features like live photos, burst mode, and depth maps. These features allow you to capture more dynamic and interactive photos, which can be a lot of fun to play around with.
Overall, the switch to the .heic format is a positive development for Apple users. It may take some getting used to if you’re used to the .jpg format, but the benefits of the .heic format – smaller file size, support for advanced photo features, and improved image quality – make it well worth the adjustment.
How To Prevent Images From Capturing In HEIC Format
While the .heic format has several benefits – such as smaller file size and support for advanced photo features – some users may prefer the more widely-compatible .jpg format.
Fortunately, it’s easy to change your settings to prevent your photos from being saved in the .heic format. Here’s how to do it:
- Open the Settings app on your Apple device.
- Scroll down and tap on “Camera.”
- Under the “Formats” section, tap on “Most Compatible.”
- Your photos will now be saved in the .jpg format.
Keep in mind that changing your settings to save photos in the .jpg format will result in slightly larger file sizes. However, this may be a worthwhile trade-off if you need to ensure that your photos are compatible with devices or software that don’t support the .heic format.
It’s also worth noting that you can still view and edit .heic files on your Apple device, even if you’ve changed your settings to save photos in the .jpg format. The .heic format will simply be used as a temporary format when you’re editing your photos, and the final version will be saved in the .jpg format.
By following these simple steps, you can easily prevent your photos from being saved in the .heic format and ensure that they’re compatible with a wider range of devices and software.
