What is a HEIC File Format?
A Complete Guide to Apple's High Efficiency Image Format
Quick Summary
- HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is Apple's version of the HEIF standard.
- Delivers superior compression than JPEG and better image quality.
- Since iOS 11, this is the default format for images on iOS devices.
- Can store multiple images, image sequences, and metadata in a single file
What is a HEIC File?
HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is a file format that Apple adopted as the default format for storing photos on iOS devices. It's based on the HEIF (High Efficiency Image Format) standard, which was developed by MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group).
When you take a photo on an iPhone or iPad running iOS 11 or later, your device saves it as a HEIC file by default. This format was chosen by Apple for its superior compression capabilities and advanced features.
Benefits of HEIC Files
Better Compression
File size is up to 50% smaller than comparable JPEG images, with no loss in image quality.
Higher Quality
With 16 bits of color support vs. 8 bits for JPEG, your images will appear much smoother.
Multiple Images
You can store more than one picture in a file. It is perfect for burst shots and Live Photos.
Rich Metadata
Supports extensive metadata, including depth information for portrait mode photos.
Common Issues with HEIC Files
- Compatibility Issues: Not all devices can access HEIC files, so you may be unable to open them on certain systems.
- Sharing Difficulties: When sharing HEIC files with non-Apple users, they might have trouble opening the images.
- Professional Software: Some image editing software doesn't fully support HEIC files yet.
- Web Upload: Many websites don't accept HEIC files for upload, requiring conversion to more common formats.
How to Open HEIC Files
Supported Platforms
- iOS/macOS: Apple devices fully support HEIC file formats.
- Windows 10/11: To open HEIC file, you need HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft Store.
- Android: It depends on the device brand.
- Online: Use our HEIC to PDF converter for universal access
Converting HEIC Files
When you need to share HEIC images or use them in applications that don't support the format, converting them to more universal formats like PDF is often the best solution.
Why Convert to PDF?
- Works with every device and operating system.
- Professional document format ideal for business and official use
- Keeps your image quality and metadata.
- Easy to share via email or messaging apps
Common Use Cases
- Sending photos for official documents and forms.
- Sharing images with users of other devices and Apple.
- Utilizing photos for documentation with embeds.
- Making your photos accessible to everyone.
How to Convert
Converting HEIC files to PDF only takes 3 steps:
- 1 Upload your HEIC file through our secure platform.
- 2 Our system processes the image without affecting the original quality.
- 3 Get your converted PDF file by clicking Download.