How to Open HEIC Files on Windows, Mac & Online

Last updated: January 2026 | 3 free methods explained

Quick Answer

Fastest way to open HEIC: Convert it online at HoneyConvert.com - takes 5 seconds, works on any device. For native support: Mac opens HEIC automatically; Windows needs the free HEIF extension from Microsoft Store.

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Windows

Install free HEIF extension or convert online

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Mac

Opens natively in Preview

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Online

Convert instantly, no install

HEIC is Apple's default photo format for iPhones. While it saves storage space, it doesn't work everywhere. This guide shows you 3 free ways to open HEIC files on any device.

Method 1: Open Online Fastest

No software needed. Works on any device with a browser.

  1. Go to HoneyConvert.com
  2. Drag and drop your HEIC file (or click to browse)
  3. Select PNG or JPEG as output format
  4. Click Convert and download your file

Time: About 5 seconds per file

Method 2: Open on Windows 10/11

Install the free HEIF codec to open HEIC files natively.

  1. Open Microsoft Store (search in Start menu)
  2. Search for "HEIF Image Extensions"
  3. Click Get or Install (it's free)
  4. Restart your PC to apply changes
  5. Double-click any HEIC file to open in Photos app

Note: Some HEIC files also require the HEVC Video Extensions ($0.99). If files still won't open after installing HEIF extensions, install HEVC too.

Method 3: Open on Mac

Mac supports HEIC natively - no extra software needed.

  1. Find your HEIC file in Finder
  2. Double-click to open in Preview
  3. Or right-click and choose Open With > Preview

Requirements: macOS High Sierra (10.13) or later. All modern Macs support HEIC out of the box.

Which Method Should You Choose?

Situation Best Method
Just need to view a few files Online converter - fastest
Regularly work with HEIC files Install HEIF extension - permanent fix
Need to share files with others Convert to PNG/JPEG - universal format
Using a Mac Just double-click - native support

Why Are iPhone Photos HEIC?

Apple switched to HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) in 2017 because it saves 50% storage space compared to JPEG while maintaining the same quality. Great for your iPhone, but problematic when sharing with Windows users.

Learn more: Why Does iPhone Use HEIC?

Stop Getting HEIC Files from iPhone

Want to prevent HEIC files in the future? Change your iPhone settings:

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone
  2. Scroll down and tap Camera
  3. Tap Formats
  4. Select Most Compatible (instead of High Efficiency)

This makes your iPhone save photos as JPEG, which works everywhere. The tradeoff: photos take up more storage space.

Need to Open HEIC Files Now?

Convert them instantly with our free online tool.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I open a HEIC file?
The fastest way is to convert it online at HoneyConvert.com - upload, convert to PNG/JPEG, and download. On Windows, install the free HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft Store. On Mac, just double-click the file.
Why can't I open HEIC files on my computer?
Windows doesn't support HEIC by default because it uses patented HEVC compression. You need to install the free HEIF codec from Microsoft Store, or convert files to a universal format like PNG or JPEG.
Can I open HEIC files without installing software?
Yes! Use an online converter like HoneyConvert.com. It works entirely in your browser - upload, convert, and download. No software installation needed.
What app opens HEIC files?
On Mac: Preview and Photos (built-in). On Windows: Photos app (with HEIF extension), IrfanView, or GIMP. On any device: online converters that turn HEIC into universal formats.
Is there a free HEIC viewer?
Yes. Mac Preview is free and built-in. Windows Photos with the free HEIF extension works. IrfanView is a free Windows program. Online converters like HoneyConvert let you view by converting to universal formats.
How do I open HEIC files from my iPhone on my PC?
Two options: 1) Convert them online at HoneyConvert.com - fastest for a few files. 2) Install HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft Store for permanent support. After installing, HEIC files open normally in Windows Photos.
Does Windows 11 open HEIC files?
Not by default. Windows 11 requires the HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft Store. It's free to install. Some PC manufacturers pre-install it, so check if yours already opens HEIC before installing.
Can I convert multiple HEIC files at once?
Yes! HoneyConvert supports batch conversion - upload multiple HEIC files and convert them all at once. See our batch conversion guide for details.

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