How to Open HEIC Files in Windows 11 Easily

This post shows students and new users steps to open HEIC files format in Windows 11 taken by Apple iPhone and iPad devices.

If you have an Apple iPhone or iPad device and take a photo with it, HEIF format will be used to save the images by default, with a file extension ending in HEIC.

If you want to open these files in Windows 11, you will be unsuccessful; that’s because Windows does not support it. To view images ending in HEIC extensions taken by Apple devices, you must download and install apps capable of handling these images from the Microsoft apps store or online from third-party websites.

There’s a simple trick to get Windows to help you download the apps to open these files, and we will show you below.

Even as new as Windows 11 is, HEIC files are not supported out of the box.

To get started with reading HEIC files in Windows 11, follow the steps below:

How to read HEIC files in Windows 11

By default, these files are not supported in Windows 11. There’s a way to view these files, but you must download and install apps.

With File Explorer opened, and you’re at the location of the files, simply right-click the image, then on the context menu, select Open with Photos, as highlighted below.

When you do that, the Photos app will inform you that “The HEVC Extension is required to display this file.” Click the “Download and install it now” link to download the Microsoft Store app.

The Microsoft Store will open a suitable extension to view the image. Click the Install button to install the app.

After installing the app, you can open HIEC images using the Photos app in Windows 11.

If you do not see the particular app above or want a free app, search the app store for “HEIC image viewer.” There will be plenty of free apps to view the HEIC file format.

How to view HEIC image format in Windows 11

Another way to view images stored in HEIC format is using a third-party app, not the app store. Simply go to the link below and download a copy in Windows 11.

Open HEIC files on Windows (copytrans.net)

After installing, right-click the image you want to view, then on the context menu, select Open with ==> Choose another app.

Then select Windows Photo Viewer and check the box to Always use this app to open .heic files.

Click OK, and you’re done.

That should do it!

Conclusion:

• HEIC files, commonly used by Apple devices, are not supported by Windows 11 by default.
• Users must download the necessary extensions or third-party applications to view these files.
• The Photos app provides a built-in option to install the HEVC Extension directly from the Microsoft Store.
• Alternative third-party applications, such as those offered on CopyTrans, can also open HEIC files.
• Once the proper applications are installed, viewing HEIC images becomes straightforward and convenient.
• Users should explore both the Microsoft Store and third-party options for the best solution that fits their needs.