How to Convert HEIC to JPG on Windows 10 and 11 (Free)
Open and convert HEIC photos from iPhone on Windows 10 or 11. Free methods including online tools and the Microsoft Store extension.
Why HEIC Files Won't Open on Windows
HEIC is Apple's photo format, introduced in iOS 11. Windows does not natively support HEIC — trying to open one shows an error or a blank image.
There are three free solutions, each with different trade-offs.
Method 1: Online Converter (Fastest, No Install)
The quickest fix requires no downloads at all:
1. Open Breklo's HEIC to JPG converter in any browser
2. Drop your HEIC files onto the page
3. Adjust quality if needed (90% is excellent)
4. Click Convert
5. Your JPG files download immediately
Works on Windows 10 and 11, any browser. Process multiple HEIC files at once.
Method 2: Microsoft HEIF Image Extensions (Free from Microsoft Store)
Microsoft offers a free extension that lets Windows open HEIC files natively:
1. Open the Microsoft Store on Windows
2. Search for HEIF Image Extensions (by Microsoft)
3. Click Get — it's free
4. After installing, Windows Photos and Paint can open HEIC files
5. Right-click any HEIC → Open with Photos → Save a copy (as JPG)
This is the best solution if you regularly receive HEIC files from iPhone users. Once installed, HEIC files open like any other image.
Note: Some users find they also need the HEVC Video Extensions (also in the Microsoft Store — may cost a small fee) for full compatibility.
Method 3: Rename and Open in Paint (Sometimes Works)
A quick trick that sometimes works:
1. Make a copy of the HEIC file
2. Rename it from `.heic` to `.jpg`
3. Try opening in Paint or Photos
This only works for some HEIC files and is unreliable. The online converter or Microsoft extension are more dependable.
Batch Converting HEIC to JPG on Windows
If you have dozens of HEIC photos from an iPhone backup:
1. Go to Breklo's HEIC to JPG converter
2. Drop all files at once
3. All files convert together and download individually
How to Stop iPhone Saving Photos as HEIC
If you prefer your iPhone to save photos as JPG by default:
1. On iPhone: Settings → Camera → Formats
2. Select Most Compatible
Future photos will be saved as JPG instead of HEIC.
Try these free tools
Frequently asked questions
Why can't Windows open HEIC files?
HEIC is Apple's format and Windows does not support it natively. Install the free HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store, or convert the files to JPG using an online tool.
Is the HEIF Image Extensions free on Windows?
Yes, the HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft are free in the Microsoft Store. They allow Windows Photos and Paint to open HEIC files directly.
Can I convert multiple HEIC files to JPG at once on Windows?
Yes. Use Breklo's HEIC to JPG converter — drop multiple files and they all convert together.
What is the best way to convert HEIC to JPG on Windows without software?
Use Breklo's online HEIC to JPG converter in any browser. No download, no installation, works immediately.
Will the converted JPG have the same quality as the HEIC?
At 90% quality, the JPG is visually identical to the HEIC original in normal viewing. There is a minimal quality difference that is invisible on screen.
How do I make my iPhone save photos as JPG instead of HEIC?
Go to Settings → Camera → Formats on your iPhone and select Most Compatible. This makes the camera save photos as JPG.