Before you start
- HEIC/HEIF photos
- A Mac or Windows PC for conversion (optional)
Method 1 Make your iPhone save JPG
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Step 1: Change camera format
Go to Settings > Camera > Formats and choose Most Compatible. New photos are saved as JPG (files are larger).
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Step 2: Convert when transferring
In Settings > Photos, under Transfer to Mac or PC, choose Automatic. Photos copied by cable are converted to JPG.
Method 2 Convert on iPhone
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Step 1: Copy and paste trick
Select photos in Photos, tap Share > Copy Photos, then open the Files app, press and hold in a folder and tap Paste. Files pasted this way are saved as JPG.
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Step 2: Share by email or messaging
Many apps (Mail, WhatsApp) convert to JPG automatically when sending.
Method 3 Convert on a Mac
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Step 1: Open in Preview
Double-click the HEIC file to open it in Preview.
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Step 2: Export
Choose File > Export, set Format to JPEG, adjust quality and save.
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Step 3: Batch convert
Select multiple files in Finder, right-click > Quick Actions > Convert Image and choose JPEG.
Method 4 Convert on Windows
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Step 1: Install HEIF support
If Photos can’t open the file, install HEIF Image Extensions (free) from the Microsoft Store. HEVC support may be needed for some files.
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Step 2: Save as JPG
Open the photo in Photos, click ⋯ > Save as and choose .jpg. Or open it in Paint and Save as > JPEG picture.
Troubleshooting
Windows says “HEIF Image Extensions required”
Install it from the Microsoft Store and reopen the file.
Converted photo looks different
HDR and wide-colour HEIC images may look slightly flatter as JPG. That’s normal.
Frequently asked questions
Is HEIC better than JPG?
HEIC files are about half the size at similar quality. JPG is more compatible.
Does converting lose quality?
A little, as JPG is compressed again. At high quality settings it’s hard to notice.
Summary
Set your iPhone camera to Most Compatible for JPGs from now on, use Automatic transfer, and convert existing files with Preview on Mac or Photos on Windows.
