HEIC is the default photo storage format for iOS devices. Since its introduction to iOS 11, it has gradually become the mainstream format for image files. The HEIC format offers higher compression efficiency, allowing for significant storage savings, but its compatibility is limited, and some devices or applications may not be able to view HEIC images directly. If you encounter the issue of HEIC pictures not showing on iPhone, this article will explain how to open HEIC files on iPhone across different iOS versions.
If your iPhone is running iOS 11 or higher, the built-in Photos app supports HEIC format. You can simply open the Photos app to browse HEIC files directly without needing to convert the format. This feature saves users the hassle of file conversion and enhances the efficiency of viewing photos.
How do I open HEIC files on my iPhone?
Step 1. Open the Photos app on your iPhone.
Step 2. Browse your albums to find HEIC format photos.
Step 3. Tap on the image to view it directly, with support for zooming, editing, and other actions.
If your device is running iOS 10 or earlier, the system does not support HEIC file format, and you will need to use alternative methods to view these images. Here are three methods you can try.
Coolmuster HEIC Converter is a professional HEIC file conversion tool that can convert HEIC files to common formats such as JPEG/JPG and PNG. By converting HEIC files to compatible formats, you can easily view them on devices running iOS 10 or earlier. This tool supports batch conversion and ensures image quality.
Key features of Coolmuster HEIC Converter:
Here is how to convert HEIC to PNG/JPG/JPEG using HEIC Converter:
01First, transfer your HEIC photos from your iPhone to your PC. Next, download and install the tool on your PC.
02Click the "Add HEIC" button or drag your images into the dashed box, then click the "Drop and drop here" icon to upload your HEIC photos.
03After importing the HEIC files, select the images you want to convert and choose "JPEG/JPG" or "PNG" as the "Output Format". If desired, enable the "Keep Exif Data" option to retain the original image information.
04Adjust the quality settings, specify an output folder on your computer for the converted files, and then click the "Convert" button to change HEIC to PNG or JPG.
Video Tutorial:
If you prefer not to download additional software, you can use the sharing feature to view HEIC images. When you share HEIC images through apps like Messages or Mail, your iPhone will automatically convert the files to the more compatible JPEG format.
Here is how to open HEIC file on iPhone 11/12/13/14/15/16:
Step 1. Select the HEIC image you want to share from your album.
Step 2. Tap the "share" button and choose a sharing option such as "Messages" or "Mail".
Step 3. After sending, the image will be automatically converted to JPEG format.
If you prefer not to generate HEIC files, you can change the photo format on your iPhone directly to JPEG. This way, future photos will be saved in the more widely compatible JPEG format, eliminating the need for subsequent conversions. Here are the steps to change the photo format:
Here are the steps:
Step 1. Open the "Settings" app on your iPhone.
Step 2. Scroll down and tap on "Camera".
Step 3. Select "Formats".
Step 4. Set Camera Capture to "Most Compatible" format.
Q1. Why I can't see HEIC photos on iPhone?
You may be unable to view HEIC photos on your iPhone because the device is running an older version of iOS (such as iOS 10 or earlier), the files may be corrupted, or there might be insufficient storage space. You can try updating the system, checking the file integrity, or using third-party conversion tools to view HEIC photos.
Q2. Why do some photos on my iPhone appear as HEIC while others are in JPEG?
This is usually because you used different settings when taking photos in various situations. For instance, if your camera format is set to "High Efficiency", photos will be saved as HEIC; when set to "Most Compatible", they will be saved as JPEG. Additionally, when sharing or exporting photos, your iPhone may automatically convert them to JPEG.
Q3. Which is better, HEIC or JPEG?
HEIC format is more efficient than JPEG, allowing for smaller file sizes while maintaining image quality, thus saving space. However, JPEG has wider compatibility, so if you need to share photos across different devices, JPEG may be more suitable. (Tips: You can click here to learn more about HEIC vs. JPEG.)
That's all about how to open HEIC file on iPhone. For devices running iOS 11 or higher, iPhone users can browse HEIC files directly in the Photos app. However, users with iOS 10 or earlier can use the sharing feature to automatically convert HEIC files to JPEG format. If you need cross-device compatibility, the Coolmuster HEIC Converter is a great option for converting HEIC files to other common formats.
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