With the rise of high-quality smartphone cameras, the HEIC file format has become increasingly popular for storing images. However, this format is not natively supported by Windows 10, which can be frustrating for users who want to view their HEIC files on their computer. In this article, we will discuss how to view HEIC files on Windows 10 for free.
What is HEIC?
Before we dive into how to view HEIC files on Windows 10, let’s first understand what this file format is. HEIC (High Efficiency Image Format) is a file format developed by the MPEG group for storing images. It offers better compression than JPEG, resulting in smaller file sizes without compromising image quality. This makes it a popular choice for storing images on smartphones.
HEIC Viewer for Windows 10
The easiest way to view HEIC files on Windows 10 is by using a third-party HEIC viewer. There are several free options available, such as CopyTrans HEIC for Windows and Apowersoft HEIC Photo Viewer. These programs allow you to view HEIC files on your computer without having to convert them to a different format.
Convert HEIC to JPEG
If you don’t want to use a third-party HEIC viewer, you can also convert your HEIC files to JPEG, which is a widely supported image format on Windows 10. There are several online converters available, such as HEIC to JPEG Converter and CloudConvert. Simply upload your HEIC file and the converter will convert it to JPEG, which you can then view on your computer.
Use iCloud Photos
If you have an iPhone and use iCloud Photos to store your images, you can also view your HEIC files on Windows 10. Simply download and install the iCloud for Windows app, and enable the “Photos” option. This will sync your iCloud Photos to your computer, including any HEIC files, which you can then view using the Windows Photos app.
Update Windows 10
If you are unable to view HEIC files on your Windows 10 computer, it may be because you have not updated your operating system. Microsoft released an update in 2018 that added support for the HEIC file format. To check if you have this update, go to Settings > Update & Security > Windows Update and click on “Check for updates.” If there is an update available, make sure to install it.
Use a HEIC Codec
Another option for viewing HEIC files on Windows 10 is by installing a HEIC codec. This is a software that allows your computer to read and display HEIC files. There are several free options available, such as the HEIC Codec for Windows and the CopyTrans HEIC Codec. Simply download and install the codec, and you will be able to view HEIC files using the Windows Photos app.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there are several ways to view HEIC files on Windows 10 for free. Whether you choose to use a third-party HEIC viewer, convert your files to JPEG, or use a HEIC codec, you can easily view your HEIC images on your computer. With these options, you no longer have to worry about not being able to view your HEIC files on Windows 10.
