Welcome to our comprehensive tutorial on how to convert HEIC images to JPG format on iCloud for both Windows and Mac users. Apple introduced the HEIC file format with iOS 11, offering a high-quality image in a smaller file size compared to the traditional JPEG. However, compatibility issues may arise when transferring these images to other devices that do not support HEIC. Here we explore seamless solutions for downloading and converting HEIC images from your iCloud to the more universally accepted JPG format. If you’re unfamiliar with iCloud services, you can start by creating an account on iCloud.
From iOS 11 through iOS 16, Apple devices have utilized the HEIC format for photos, which works efficiently on compatible iOS and macOS versions. However, viewing or editing these images on a PC often requires conversion to JPEG. This article delves into various methods to transfer HEIC photos from your iPhone to your Mac or PC, allowing you to choose the preferred approach after reviewing them.
Guide to Downloading and Converting HEIC to JPG on iCloud for Windows and Mac
Setting iPhone to Save Photos in JPEG Instead of HEIC
- Start by navigating to your iPhone’s Settings app.
- Go to Camera settings and select the Formats option.
- Choose ‘Most Compatible’ to save photos in JPEG format instead of ‘High Efficiency’ (HEIC).
- Once changed, your iPhone will capture images and videos in formats with wider compatibility, though with larger file sizes.
- Note that this setting change does not retroactively convert your existing HEIC photos to JPEG. For that conversion, other methods are needed, which we will cover.
Converting HEIC to JPEG on a Windows PC
Automatic Conversion During Transfer
- iPhone offers an option to automatically convert images to JPEG during transfer to a PC or Mac.
- In the Settings app, select Photos and choose ‘Transfer to Mac or PC’.
- Opt for ‘Automatic’ to change images to JPEG during transfer. The ‘Keep Originals’ option retains HEIC format.
Downloading JPEGs via iCloud Web
- Ensure iCloud Photo backup is enabled on your iPhone within the Settings app.
- From a PC, visit iCloud.com and log in with your Apple ID.
- Select Photos and during download, choose the ‘Most Compatible’ option to get images in JPEG format.
Converting HEIC to JPEG on a Mac
While Airdrop retains the HEIC format when transferring photos to Mac, macOS provides easy conversion tools.
Exporting Images in JPG Using Preview
- Use the Preview app to change an image’s format.
- Open a HEIC photo in Preview, go to the File menu, and select ‘Export’.
- Choose the desired format and other options in the export menu.
Wrapping Up the Conversion Process
We trust that our guide bolsters your understanding of transforming HEIC images to JPG format on both Windows and Mac platforms. While the built-in support for HEIC files is available on these systems, full compatibility across all applications and services isn’t a given. Sharing and editing images can, therefore, be more accessible when they’re in the widely recognized JPG format. Should you find this article insightful, please feel free to share it with peers seeking similar knowledge.
