Opening HEIC files in Windows 10 might seem like a daunting task, especially if you’re not familiar with the file format. However, worry not because in this article we will be discussing 12 easy steps that you can follow to open HEIC files on your Windows 10 device. But before we dive into the steps, let’s first understand what HEIC files are.
Understanding HEIC Files
HEIC stands for High-Efficiency Image Format, and it’s a file format that was developed by the MPEG group. The format was created to replace the popular JPEG format which has been the go-to format for many years.
One advantage of HEIC files over JPEG files is that they are significantly smaller, which means that they take up less space on your device. Additionally, HEIC files tend to have better quality than JPEG files.
However, not all devices and software are compatible with HEIC files, and that’s where opening HEIC files on Windows 10 comes in.
12 Easy Steps on How to Open HEIC Files in Windows 10
Step 1: Download and Install HEIF Image Extensions
The first step you need to take to open HEIC files on your Windows 10 device is to download and install the HEIF Image Extensions. You can do this by visiting the Microsoft Store and searching for HEIF Image Extensions. Once downloaded, install the app.
Step 2: Set HEIF Image Extensions as Default Viewer for HEIC Files
After installing the HEIF Image Extensions app, you need to set it as the default viewer for HEIC files. To do this, go to Settings > Apps > Default Apps > Photo Viewer > HEIF Image Extensions.
Step 3: Enable the HEIF Image Extension in Windows Photos
Next, you need to enable the HEIF Image Extension in Windows Photos. To do this, open Windows Photos, then go to Settings > Additonal Rules > HEIF.
Step 4: Download and Install CopyTrans HEIC for Windows
If you prefer using other photo viewers besides Windows Photos, then you may need to download and install CopyTrans HEIC for Windows. This app allows you to open HEIC files on your Windows 10 device. Download and install the app by visiting the CopyTrans website.
Step 5: Enable CopyTrans HEIC for Windows as Default Viewer for HEIC Files
After you have downloaded and installed CopyTrans HEIC for Windows, you need to set it as the default viewer for HEIC files. To do this, right-click on any HEIC file, then select “Open With” > “Choose another app” > “CopyTrans HEIC for Windows”.
Step 6: Use iCloud to Convert Images to JPEG
If you have an Apple device, you can use iCloud to convert your HEIC files to JPEG files. Open iCloud on your Apple device, then go to Settings > Photos > Transfer to Mac or PC > Automatic. This will ensure that your photos are automatically converted to JPEG files when they’re downloaded to your Windows 10 device.
Step 7: Use a Third-Party Online Converter
Alternatively, you can use a third-party online converter to convert your HEIC files to JPEG files. Some popular online converters include HEIC to JPEG, online-convert.com, and cloudconvert.com.
Step 8: Use the Microsoft Photos App to Convert HEIC Files to JPEG
Microsoft Photos app also allows you to convert HEIC files to JPEG files. To do this, open the Microsoft Photos app, then select the HEIC file you want to convert. Click on the “Export” button, then select “JPEG” as the export format.
Step 9: Use Adobe Photoshop to Open and Convert HEIC Files
If you have Adobe Photoshop installed on your device, you can use it to open and convert HEIC files. To do this, open Adobe Photoshop, then go to File > Open. Select the HEIC file you want to convert, then click “Open”. In the “Save As” dialog box, select “JPEG” as the file format.
Step 10: Change the File Extension from HEIC to JPEG
Another way to open HEIC files on Windows 10 is to change the file extension from HEIC to JPEG. This will allow you to open the file in any photo viewer that supports JPEG files.
Step 11: Download and Install InPixio Photo Editor
InPixio Photo Editor is another great app that allows you to open HEIC files on Windows 10. Download and install the app from the InPixio website.
Step 12: Use VLC Media Player to Open and Convert HEIC Files
Finally, you can also use VLC Media Player to open and convert HEIC files. Simply open VLC Media Player, then go to Media > Convert/Save. Select the HEIC file you want to convert, then click “Convert/Save”. In the “Profile” drop-down menu, select “JPEG”.
Tips and Tricks
Tip 1: Use a Third-Party Photo Viewer
There are many third-party photo viewers that are compatible with HEIC files. Some popular ones include IrfanView, FastStone Image Viewer, and XnView.
Tip 2: Keep Your Software Up to Date
Make sure that your Windows 10 device and all software are up to date to ensure compatibility with HEIC files.
Tip 3: Use iCloud to Store HEIC Files
If you have an Apple device, consider using iCloud to store your HEIC files. This way, you can access your files on any device by simply downloading them from iCloud.
Tip 4: Convert HEIC Files to JPEG as a Backup
To avoid compatibility issues, it’s always a good idea to convert your HEIC files to JPEG as a backup.
Tip 5: Check for Compatibility Before You Buy a New Device
Before you buy a new device, make sure that it’s compatible with HEIC files, especially if you take a lot of photos using your device.
Tip 6: Use HEVC Instead of HEIC
If you’re not fond of using HEIC files, consider using HEVC for video and HEIF for images instead.
Tip 7: Use Windows File Explorer to Preview HEIC Files
Windows File Explorer allows you to preview HEIC files, even if you haven’t installed any additional software.
Tip 8: Use Dropbox to Store HEIC Files
Dropbox is another great cloud storage service that is compatible with HEIC files. Consider using Dropbox to store your HEIC files.
Tip 9: Join a HEIC User Group
Joining a HEIC user group will allow you to learn more about the file format, as well as connect with other users who can provide valuable advice and support.
Tip 10: Use HEIC Files to Save Storage Space
HEIC files are smaller than JPEG files, which means that they take up less space on your device. Consider using HEIC files to save storage space on your device.
In conclusion, opening HEIC files in Windows 10 may seem like a challenge, but with the 12 easy steps discussed in this article, you can now open HEIC files on your Windows 10 device. Remember to keep your software up to date and use HEIC files to save storage space on your device. With these tips and tricks, you can make the most out of HEIC files and enjoy their benefits without any issues.
Advantages of Opening HEIC Files in Windows 10
HEIC or High-Efficiency Image Format is becoming widely used as the default image format for iOS devices. However, Windows 10 does not natively support this format. Here are some advantages of opening HEIC files in Windows 10:
Kelebihan
-
Better Image Quality: With HEIC, images retain high quality while having a significantly smaller file size compared to other formats like JPEG. This means you can store more images on your device without compromising on quality.
-
In-built Editing Features: Windows 10 has several in-built editing features such as cropping, retouching, and resizing. Converting HEIC to another format allows you to access these features, making it easier to enhance your images.
-
Compatibility with More Devices: While HEIC is the default format for iOS, many devices still do not support this format. Converting HEIC to a more widely accepted format like JPEG ensures that your images are compatible with a wider range of devices and software.
-
Preserving Metadata: Converting HEIC to another format like JPEG may cause loss of metadata in some cases. However, using HEIC-compatible software or tools ensures that important metadata such as location, date, and time are preserved.
-
Easy File Sharing: Converting HEIC files to JPEG or other formats makes it easier to share your images with others through email, social media, or messaging apps. This is because most devices and software support these formats.
-
Access on Non-Apple Devices: HEIC files can only be accessed on Apple devices or devices with HEIC-compatible software installed. Converting HEIC to a more widely supported format like JPEG ensures that you can access your images on any device, including non-Apple devices.
-
Lower Storage Space: HEIC files have a smaller size compared to other formats such as JPEG. Converting HEIC files to a more widely used format can save storage space on your device without compromising on quality.
-
Compatibility with Older Software: Older software may not support HEIC files. Converting HEIC files to a more widely used format ensures that you can use your images with any software on any device.
-
Flexibility: With a wide range of HEIC converters available, converting HEIC to another format provides flexibility in choosing the software or tool that suits your needs and preferences.
-
HEIC is still a relatively new format: Some devices and software may not yet support the HEIC format. Converting HEIC files to more widely used formats like JPEG ensures maximum compatibility with all devices.
Disadvantages of Opening HEIC Files in Windows 10
Kekurangan
-
Lack of Native Support: Windows 10 does not support HEIC format natively. Converting HEIC files to another format takes an extra step, which may be inconvenient for some users.
-
Possible Loss of Quality: Converting HEIC files to another format like JPEG may result in loss of quality. While some converters claim to retain quality, it is important to choose a reputable converter to ensure minimal loss of quality.
-
Additional Time and Effort: Converting HEIC files to another format takes additional time and effort, especially if you have a large number of files to convert.
-
Loss of Animated Images: HEIC supports animated images, whereas most other formats do not. Converting animated HEIC files to another format may result in the loss of animation.
-
Incompatible Metadata: In some cases, converting HEIC files to another format may result in the loss or incompatible metadata. This is especially true if you use a third-party converter.
-
Less Secure: Converting HEIC files to another format may result in less secure images. This is because some formats, like JPEG, are less secure than HEIC and can be easily tampered with or edited.
-
Reduced Flexibility: Converting HEIC files to another format reduces the flexibility of the format. This is because other formats like JPEG have fewer features and functionalities compared to HEIC.
-
No Turning Back: Once you convert HEIC files to another format, you cannot convert it back to HEIC. This means that you may lose the benefits of HEIC that are not available in other formats.
-
Difficulty in Converting Animated Images: Converting animated HEIC files to other formats or retaining the animation may be difficult, especially if you use third-party converters.
-
Possible Loss of Metadata: Converting HEIC files to another format may result in the loss of some metadata, especially if you use a third-party converter.
FAQ
Q: What is a heic file?
A: A heic file is an image file format used by Apple devices. It is a high-efficiency format that allows for better image quality with smaller file sizes.
Q: Why can’t I open heic files in Windows 10?
A: Windows 10 does not have native support for the heic file format. You will need to install additional software or convert the file to a different format in order to open it.
Q: What software can I use to open heic files on Windows 10?
A: There are several options available, including the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store, the free iMazing HEIC Converter, or the paid CopyTrans HEIC for Windows.
Q: How do I install the HEIF Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store?
A: Simply search for “HEIF Image Extensions” in the Microsoft Store and click “Get” to download and install the app.
Q: How do I use the iMazing HEIC Converter to open heic files?
A: Download and install the iMazing HEIC Converter, then drag and drop the heic file into the program and convert it to a different format, such as JPEG or PNG, that is compatible with Windows 10.
Q: Is there a way to convert heic files to a compatible format without downloading additional software?
A: Yes, you can use online conversion tools such as heictojpg.com or cloudconvert.com to convert heic files to JPEG or PNG.
Q: Can I open heic files on earlier versions of Windows?
A: Older versions of Windows may require additional software or updates in order to open heic files.
Q: Are there any disadvantages to converting heic files to a different format?
A: Converting heic files to a different format may result in a decrease in image quality, as well as an increase in file size.
Q: Are there any other image file formats I should consider using instead of heic?
A: JPEG and PNG are both widely used and compatible with most devices and operating systems.
Q: Can I open heic files on my Android phone?
A: Some newer Android devices may be able to open heic files, but most will require additional software or conversion to a different format.
Q: Is it possible to open heic files on a Mac?
A: Yes, Macs have native support for the heic file format.
Q: Can I use Adobe Photoshop to open heic files?
A: Yes, if you have the latest version of Adobe Photoshop, it should be able to open heic files.
Q: Are heic files better than other image file formats?
A: The heic format can offer better image quality with smaller file sizes, but it may not be compatible with all devices and operating systems.
How to Open HEIC File in Windows 10
If you are having trouble opening HEIC files on your Windows 10 device, then you have come to the right place. HEIC or High Efficiency Image Format is a relatively new image format that is slowly gaining popularity due to its smaller size and high-quality results. However, not all devices support the HEIC format yet, which can make opening and viewing such files a bit of a challenge.
To open HEIC files on Windows 10, you can follow these simple steps:
Conclusion
Opening HEIC files in Windows 10 is relatively easy when you know what to do. You can either use a third-party app or convert the HEIC files to a more common file format such as JPEG. No matter which method you choose, always ensure that you are using a reliable and trustworthy app to avoid any compatibility or security issues.
Closing
Hopefully, this article has helped you learn how to open HEIC files in Windows 10. With the right tools and knowledge, you can easily view and edit HEIC files on your device without any hassle. Thank you for reading and goodbye!