HEIC to JPEG: Understanding the Formats and How to Convert in 2025
HEIC to JPEG: Understanding the Formats and How to Convert
In today's digital world, we encounter various image formats, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Two formats you've likely come across are HEIC and JPEG. While JPEG has been a long-standing standard, HEIC is a newer format gaining popularity, especially among Apple users. This guide will delve into understanding both formats and provide you with comprehensive methods to convert HEIC images to JPEG.
Table of Contents
- What is HEIC?
- What is JPEG?
- Why Convert HEIC to JPEG?
- How to Convert HEIC to JPEG
- Tips for Preserving Image Quality
- Conclusion
What is HEIC?
HEIC, which stands for High Efficiency Image Container, is a file format used by Apple devices running iOS 11 or later for saving photos. It's based on the High Efficiency Image Format (HEIF) standard and utilizes advanced compression technology. The primary advantage of HEIC is its ability to store high-quality images while taking up significantly less storage space compared to JPEG. In fact, HEIC files can be up to 50% smaller than JPEGs of comparable quality.
Beyond efficient compression, HEIC also supports features like 16-bit color depth, allowing for a broader range of colors and better detail in highlights and shadows. It can even store multiple images within a single file, which is used for Apple's Live Photos feature. Additionally, HEIC supports transparency, similar to PNG files.
What is JPEG?
JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) has been a widely used image format for decades and is known for its broad compatibility across virtually all platforms and devices. It's a popular choice for photographs due to its effective lossy compression, which reduces file sizes, making them easy to share and store. This compression involves discarding some image data, which can result in a slight loss of quality, especially with repeated editing and saving. However, for most everyday uses, the quality remains high while the file size is significantly reduced. JPEG supports up to 24-bit color depth, encompassing around 16.7 million colors.
Why Convert HEIC to JPEG?
Despite the advantages of HEIC, its compatibility isn't as universal as JPEG. Here are some common reasons why you might need to convert HEIC to JPEG:
Universality and Compatibility: JPEG is supported by almost all operating systems, software, web browsers, and devices. You might encounter issues opening or sharing HEIC files on non-Apple devices or older systems.
Ease of Sharing: Sharing HEIC files with individuals who don't use Apple devices can be problematic as they might not be able to view them without installing additional software or converting the files themselves.
Editing and Tools: While HEIC support is growing, some older or less common image editing software might not fully support the format. Converting to JPEG ensures broader compatibility with various editing tools.
Web Standards: JPEG remains a more universally accepted format for web images, ensuring consistent display across different browsers.
How to Convert HEIC to JPEG
Fortunately, converting HEIC to JPEG is a straightforward process. Here are several methods you can use:
1. Using Built-in Features (Mac):
If you're a Mac user, you can easily convert HEIC files using the Preview application:
Open the HEIC file you want to convert using Preview. Click on File in the menu bar, then select Export. In the export dialog box, name your new file and choose a destination. From the Format dropdown menu, select JPEG. Adjust the Quality slider if needed (higher quality means a larger file size). Click Save.
2. Using Built-in Features (Windows):
Windows 10 and later versions offer built-in support for HEIC files, but you might need to install a free codec from the Microsoft Store called "HEIF Image Extensions". Once installed, you can convert HEIC to JPEG using the Photos app:
Open the HEIC file with the Photos app. Click on the three dots (...) at the top right of the window. Select Save as. In the "Save As" dialog, choose JPEG from the "Save as type" dropdown menu. Click Save.
3. Using Online Conversion Tools:
Numerous online tools allow you to convert HEIC to JPEG without installing any software. Some popular options include:
SuperConvert.io: Simply upload your HEIC file to SuperConvert.io and select JPEG as the output format.
HEICtoJPG.com: This website focuses specifically on HEIC to JPEG conversion.
imagetotext.online: Their HEIC to JPG converter is another convenient option.
WebPtoJPEG.com: While the name suggests WebP conversion, many such tools also support HEIC to JPEG.
HEIC Digital: This tool offers batch conversion and ZIP file downloads.
Simply visit one of these websites, upload your HEIC file(s), and follow the on-screen instructions to convert and download the JPEG version(s). Be mindful of the file size limits some online converters might have.
4. Using Dedicated Software:
For batch conversions or more advanced options, you can use dedicated HEIC converter software. Some popular choices include:
iMazing HEIC Converter: A free desktop application for both Windows and Mac.
CopyTrans HEIC for Windows: Another free option for Windows users.
EaseUS MobiMover: A more comprehensive tool that includes HEIC conversion among its features.
Coolmuster HEIC Converter: Specifically designed for batch HEIC to JPG/PNG conversion on PC.
XnConvert: A versatile image converter that supports numerous formats, including HEIC to JPEG.
Download and install your preferred software, then follow its specific instructions to convert your HEIC files.
5. Using Mobile Devices (iPhone/Android):
iPhone: You can change your iPhone's camera settings to save photos directly as JPEGs instead of HEICs. Go to Settings > Camera > Formats and select Most Compatible. For existing HEIC photos, you can use the Files app to convert them. Open the Photos app, select the HEIC images, share them to the Files app, create a new folder, select the images, tap the three dots, choose Quick Actions, and then Convert Image. You can choose to save them as JPEG.
Android: Some Samsung Galaxy phones allow you to disable HEIC saving in the camera settings: Go to Camera > Camera settings > Advanced picture options and turn off High efficiency pictures. For converting existing HEIC files, you can use the Google Photos app. Open the HEIC image, tap Edit, then Save as copy, and it might give you the option to save as JPEG. You can also find dedicated HEIC converter apps on the Google Play Store.
6. Using Adobe Photoshop:
If you have Adobe Photoshop, you can easily convert HEIC files:
Open the HEIC image in Photoshop. You might need to install the HEIF Image Extensions codec on Windows for Photoshop to recognize HEIC files.
Go to File > Save As.
Choose JPEG as the format.
Adjust the quality settings and click Save.
Tips for Preserving Image Quality During Conversion:
When using online converters or software, look for options to adjust the output quality. Opting for a higher quality setting will result in a larger file size but better preservation of detail.
If you're using a method that allows you to set the compression level, be mindful that higher compression reduces file size but can also decrease image quality.
For critical images where quality is paramount, consider using lossless conversion methods if available, although these might result in larger JPEG files.
Conclusion:
While HEIC offers significant advantages in terms of storage efficiency and image quality, its lack of universal compatibility often necessitates conversion to the more widely supported JPEG format. Fortunately, as you've seen, there are numerous methods available to convert HEIC to JPEG, catering to various needs and devices. Whether you prefer using built-in tools, online converters, dedicated software, or mobile apps, you can easily transform your HEIC images into JPEGs for seamless sharing and viewing across different platforms. Choose the method that best suits your workflow and enjoy the flexibility of the universally compatible JPEG format.