How to open HEIC files on Windows 10 and 11
Windows does not open iPhone HEIC photos by default. You can add support with two Microsoft Store extensions, use a viewer that includes its own decoder, or convert the files.
Updated · 2 min read
Why Windows cannot open HEIC by default
HEIC photos are stored in the HEIF container and compressed with HEVC. Windows treats support for both as optional components that you install from the Microsoft Store. Until they are added, File Explorer shows blank thumbnails and Photos reports that the format is not supported.
Method 1: install the HEIF and HEVC extensions
- Open the Microsoft Store and install HEIF Image Extensions (published by Microsoft, free).
- Also install HEVC Video Extensions. This one is usually a paid add-on of around a dollar, and the price varies by region. Many guides note that iPhone HEIC files need it because the picture data is HEVC-compressed.
- Restart your PC if Windows asks, then double-click a .heic file. It should open in Photos, and thumbnails should appear in File Explorer.
If the extensions are installed but photos still will not open
- Restart the PC and try again.
- Reinstall both extensions from the Microsoft Store.
- Repair or reset the Photos app from Settings > Apps > Installed apps > Photos > Advanced options.
- Open the file with another program (see below) to check whether the file itself is damaged.
- If none of this helps, converting is often quicker than troubleshooting.
Method 2: use a viewer with its own HEIC decoder
Some third-party image viewers, such as XnView MP, can open HEIC without Microsoft’s extensions. This can be a convenient choice if you would rather not use the Store. Check the current feature list of any viewer before installing.
Method 3: convert the photos
If you need the photos to work in every program, or you are sending them to someone else, convert them to JPG. The HEIC to JPG converter runs in your browser and does not upload your pictures; for a whole folder use the batch converter.
Method 4: stop getting HEIC files from your iPhone
On your iPhone, set Settings > Photos > Transfer to Mac or PC to Automatic so photos are converted to a compatible format when copied to your PC, or set the camera to Most Compatible. See how to stop your iPhone taking HEIC photos.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers about HEIC files, privacy and conversion.
Are the Windows HEIC extensions free?
The HEIF Image Extensions are free from Microsoft. HEVC Video Extensions are typically a small paid add-on, though some PCs include a free version from the manufacturer. Prices and availability vary.
Does Windows 11 open HEIC files natively?
Not without help. Windows 11 Photos can display HEIC once the required extensions are installed from the Microsoft Store.
Why do I see a thumbnail but cannot open the photo?
This usually means one of the two extensions is missing, or the Photos app needs repairing. Install both extensions and restart.
What is the quickest fix for one photo?
Convert it to JPG with the browser converter. It takes seconds and needs no installation.