If you’ve ever transferred photos from an iPhone to your Windows 11 PC, you’ve probably noticed that your pictures come in the HEIC format. While HEIC (High-Efficiency Image Format) saves storage space and maintains quality, Windows doesn’t always play nicely with it. Don’t worry! In this guide, I’ll show you exactly how to convert HEIC to JPG on Windows 11, step by step, so your photos are accessible anywhere.
What is HEIC and Why Does It Exist?
Before converting, let’s understand what we’re dealing with.
HEIC is a modern image format used by Apple devices. Compared to JPG:
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Smaller file sizes
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Better image quality
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Supports advanced features like multiple images and transparency
Sounds great, right? The downside is Windows doesn’t natively support HEIC files in all apps, especially older ones or software like Photoshop without plugins.
Why Convert HEIC to JPG?
You might ask: “Why not just keep HEIC?” Good question! Here are some reasons:
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Universal Compatibility: JPG works on almost all devices and software.
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Ease of Sharing: Some platforms don’t accept HEIC images.
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Editing Flexibility: More software can open JPGs without extra plugins.
Step 1: Check If Your PC Supports HEIC
Windows 11 can natively open HEIC files—but only if the HEIF Image Extensions are installed.
How to Check
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Open your HEIC file in Photos.
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If it opens: good to go.
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If not, a prompt will appear to install the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store.
Installing HEIF Extensions
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Open Microsoft Store.
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Search for “HEIF Image Extensions”.
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Click Install.
Once installed, your PC can now view HEIC files, making conversion easier.
Step 2: Use the Photos App to Convert HEIC to JPG
Windows 11’s built-in Photos app can convert images without extra software.
How to Convert
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Open the HEIC file in Photos.
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Click … (More Options) in the top-right corner.
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Select Save As.
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Choose JPEG as the file format.
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Click Save.
Done! Your HEIC file is now a JPG.
Step 3: Use 7-Zip or File Explorer for Bulk Conversion (Optional)
If you have many HEIC files, converting one by one can be tedious. Windows 11 doesn’t support batch conversion natively, but there are tricks:
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Copy HEIC files into one folder
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Use third-party apps (we’ll cover them next)
This is where tools like iMazing HEIC Converter, CopyTrans HEIC for Windows, or online converters shine.
Step 4: Use Free Third-Party Software
Sometimes the built-in tools aren’t enough. Here are some popular free apps:
1. iMazing HEIC Converter
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Free and lightweight
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Supports batch conversion
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Converts HEIC → JPG or PNG
How to Use:
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Download and install iMazing HEIC Converter.
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Drag and drop HEIC files into the app.
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Select JPG and quality.
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Click Convert.
2. CopyTrans HEIC for Windows
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Integrates HEIC files into Windows Explorer
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Right-click → Convert to JPEG
3. Online Converters
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Websites like heictojpg.com or cloudconvert.com
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No software installation
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Great for small batches
Step 5: Using Microsoft Paint for Quick Conversion
A little-known trick: Microsoft Paint can open HEIC files (once HEIF extensions are installed) and save them as JPG:
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Right-click HEIC → Open With → Paint
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Click File → Save As → JPEG picture
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Done!
Perfect for converting single images quickly.
Step 6: Converting HEIC via Windows PowerToys (Advanced)
For tech enthusiasts, PowerToys can automate conversions:
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Install Microsoft PowerToys.
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Use the Image Resizer utility.
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Select HEIC images → Choose output as JPG → Resize/Convert.
This method is efficient if you work with large photo libraries.
Tips for Converting HEIC Files
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Always keep a backup of original HEIC files.
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Choose maximum quality JPG if you plan to print.
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For batch conversions, third-party tools are faster than manual methods.
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Consider PNG if transparency is needed.
Common HEIC Conversion Issues
1. HEIC Files Not Opening
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Install HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft Store.
2. Quality Loss
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Always select high-quality settings when converting.
3. Batch Conversion Fails
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Use dedicated apps like iMazing or CopyTrans instead of Photos.
Why JPG is Still King
Despite HEIC’s advantages, JPG remains the most compatible format worldwide. Every device, website, and social media platform loves JPGs. Converting ensures your photos are accessible and shareable anywhere.
Final Thoughts
Converting HEIC to JPG on Windows 11 doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you use the built-in Photos app, Microsoft Paint, or a third-party tool, the process is simple and efficient. With these methods, you can view, share, and edit your iPhone photos on any Windows device without a hitch.
FAQs
1. Can Windows 11 open HEIC files without conversion?
Yes, but only if the HEIF Image Extensions are installed from Microsoft Store.
2. Will converting HEIC to JPG reduce quality?
Slightly, because JPG is a compressed format. Choose high-quality settings to minimize loss.
3. Is there a free tool for batch conversion?
Yes, iMazing HEIC Converter and CopyTrans HEIC for Windows are free and support batch conversions.
4. Can I convert HEIC to PNG instead of JPG?
Absolutely. Most converters, including iMazing, allow PNG or JPG outputs.
5. Do I need to keep the original HEIC files?
It’s recommended as a backup, especially if you want higher quality or future-proof files.