Stuck trying to open HEIC files on your Windows computer? You’re not alone! But fear not, photo enthusiasts! With a quick download or a handy third-party app, you can unlock the secrets of HEIC files and view your cherished memories with ease. So ditch the frustration and dive into our guide to decoding HEIC on Windows!
There are two main approaches to handling HEIC files on Windows: utilizing the Photos app with the proper extension or employing third-party image viewers.
Open HEIC Files with the Photos App
This method is ideal for modern Windows 10 and 11 systems.
- Simply locate the HEIC file and double-click it.
- If the Photos app prompts you for the HEIF Image Extension, Click “Download and install it now” to proceed. The solution is a free download from the Microsoft Store.
- Once installed, you should be able to seamlessly view HEIC files within the Photos app, and even generate thumbnails for them in File Explorer.
Using Third-Party Image Viewers
- An alternative route is through third-party image viewers that offer built-in HEIC support, eliminating the need for additional codecs from Microsoft.
- Popular options include XnView and Honeyview. Download and install your preferred image viewer, and you should be able to open HEIC files directly within the application.
Converting HEIC Files to JPEG
- If you don’t necessarily require the HEIC format’s advantages, converting them to JPEG is a practical solution. This allows you to open the files with any standard image viewer on Windows or other operating systems.
- There are two primary methods for HEIC to JPEG conversion:
- Online Conversion Tools: Websites like HEICtoJPG.com provide free conversion services. However, be cautious when uploading sensitive files to any online converter, as security is a concern.
- Dedicated Software: Software like CopyTrans HEIC for Windows can add HEIC support to the built-in Windows Photo Viewer, along with offering a user-friendly conversion option. Other third-party image editing software, such as Adobe Photoshop or GIMP, may also include HEIC conversion capabilities.
By understanding these methods, you can effectively handle HEIC files on your Windows system, whether you prefer to view them in their original format or convert them for broader compatibility.
