HEIC → JPG HEIC → PNG
HEIC → GIF HEIC → PDF

How to Convert HEIC on iPhone

Published: — By URImgConverter

HEIC is the default photo format on many iPhones. It saves space, but it can be annoying when you need to upload a photo to a website, open it on Windows, or attach it to a form that only accepts JPG.

Below are the easiest ways to convert HEIC to JPG depending on what device you are using—and a quick option that works on any platform.

Fastest method (works on any device): convert in your browser

If you just want your photo to work everywhere, the fastest universal method is converting in the browser: HEIC → JPG converter. The conversion runs locally on your device, and your files are never uploaded.

How to convert HEIC to JPG on iPhone

Option A: Change your camera settings to save as JPG going forward

If you would rather avoid HEIC entirely, you can change iPhone settings so new photos save as JPG. This will not change existing photos, but it prevents the problem going forward.

  1. Open Settings.
  2. Tap Camera.
  3. Tap Formats.
  4. Select Most Compatible (instead of High Efficiency).

After this, your iPhone will typically save new photos as JPG (and videos as a more compatible format).

Option B: Share/export as JPG (common iPhone behavior)

In some cases, when you share a photo from the Photos app (email, messaging, AirDrop), iOS may automatically convert to JPG for compatibility. This behavior can vary based on the app you are using and the receiving device.

If you need a guaranteed JPG every time, conversion is still the most reliable approach: URImgConverter.

How to convert HEIC to JPG on Windows

Option A: Install HEIC support (so Windows can open HEIC)

Some Windows systems need HEIF/HEVC extensions to open HEIC files in the Photos app and show thumbnails in File Explorer. If you can install extensions, this can be convenient.

If you are on a locked-down or work computer, installation may be blocked. In that case, conversion is easiest.

Option B: Convert to JPG using URImgConverter (no installs)

  1. Open HEIC → JPG.
  2. Drag and drop your HEIC photos.
  3. Click Convert.
  4. Download your JPG files.

If you have multiple images, use Download All (.zip) to grab everything at once.

How to convert HEIC to JPG on Mac

Option A: Export from Preview

macOS typically opens HEIC files natively. If you need JPG for compatibility:

  1. Open the HEIC image in Preview.
  2. Click File → Export.
  3. Select JPEG as the format.
  4. Save the file.

Option B: Convert multiple files quickly (browser method)

If you are converting many photos, exporting one-by-one is slow. A batch converter is faster: Convert HEIC in your browser.

Which format should you choose: JPG, PNG, GIF, or PDF?

JPG is best for general photos and sharing. But sometimes another format is better:

  • PNG for transparency or crisp text (like screenshots). Use HEIC → PNG.
  • GIF for compatibility with simple animations (less common for photos). Use HEIC → GIF.
  • PDF if you want a document you can print or share. Use HEIC → PDF.

Privacy: avoid uploading personal photos

Many “free converters” upload your images to a server. That may be fine for public images, but it is not ideal for private photos. URImgConverter runs locally in your browser—your files never leave your device. Learn more on our Privacy page.

Common questions

For answers and troubleshooting, visit our FAQ.