Questions
- How do I make my iPhone or iPad save photos as a JPEG file instead of a HEIC file?
- Why can't someone on Windows open the photos I sent them from my iPhone?
- How do I change my iPhone camera settings to save in a more compatible format?
- What is the HEIC format and why does it cause problems with Windows?
- How do I convert existing HEIC photos to JPEG on my Mac or Windows computer?
- What does "Most Compatible" mean in iPhone camera settings?
Environment
This article applies to anyone using an iPhone or iPad running current iOS or iPadOS who wants to share photos with Windows computers. Many Windows systems struggle to open photos saved in the High Efficiency Image Container (HEIC) format, which is the default on iPhones and iPads. Changing the camera format setting ensures photos are saved as JPEG, which is compatible with virtually all devices and operating systems.
Resolution
Change the Camera Format Setting on iPhone or iPad
This setting affects all photos taken going forward. It does not convert existing HEIC photos already on the device.
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Scroll down and tap Camera.
- Tap Formats.
- Select Most Compatible.
What this does: Selecting Most Compatible saves all new photos as JPEG (.jpg) files. The High Efficiency setting (the default) saves photos as HEIC, which uses less storage but is not universally supported by Windows.
Convert Existing HEIC Photos to JPEG
If you have already taken photos in HEIC format and need to convert them, use one of the following methods depending on your computer's operating system.
On macOS (Sequoia or Tahoe):
- Open the HEIC photo in Preview.
- Go to File > Export.
- In the Format dropdown, select JPEG.
- Adjust quality if needed, then click Save.
On Windows 11:
- Open the photo in the Photos app. If Windows cannot open the file, install the free HEIC Image Extensions from the Microsoft Store, then try again.
- Click the See more menu (the three-dot icon) and select Save a copy.
- In the save dialog, change the file type to JPEG and save.
Additional Help
If you need further assistance, you have several options:
- Bowdoin Bot: Chat with Bowdoin Bot directly from any KB page for instant answers.
- Phone: Call the Bowdoin College Service Desk at (207) 725-3030.
- In person: Visit the Tech Hub in Smith Union during business hours.
- Submit a ticket: Request assistance through the Service Catalog.