Why can't Windows open HEIC files?

HEIC uses HEVC compression, which requires a licensed codec. Microsoft charges $0.99 for the HEVC Video Extensions in the Microsoft Store. Without it, Windows Photos shows an error when opening HEIC files.

How do I open a HEIC file on Windows 10 for free?

Convert the HEIC to JPG using FixTools in your browser — free, no purchase required. Alternatively, install the free HEVC extensions available on some OEM Windows PCs.

Can Photoshop on Windows open HEIC files?

Photoshop CC 2018 and later can open HEIC files on Windows if the HEVC codec is installed. Without the codec, even Photoshop cannot open them.

Can Paint.NET open HEIC files?

Paint.NET supports HEIC with a plugin (FileTypes Plus or similar). For a simpler solution, convert to JPG first using FixTools.

Is there a free way to get HEVC support on Windows?

Some Windows PCs sold with Windows 10 include free OEM HEVC extensions. You can check the Microsoft Store for "HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer" — if available for your PC, it is free.

What is the best way to handle HEIC files sent from an iPhone to a Windows PC?

The quickest workflow: drag HEIC files to FixTools in Chrome, convert to JPG in one batch, and download the JPGs. Takes under a minute for a full batch of photos.

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Open HEIC Files on Windows

Windows does not natively support HEIC files without installing additional codecs. The easiest solution is to convert HEIC to JPG using FixTools in your browser — no downloads, no Microsoft Store purchases, and no software configuration needed.

⚡ Use Tool Now How it works

Cost: Free forever
Sign-up: Not required
Processing: In your browser
Privacy: Files stay local

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No Windows codec installation needed

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Works in Chrome, Edge, Firefox on Windows

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Convert and open instantly

Image Tool

HEIC to JPG Converter

All processing happens in your browser — your files are never uploaded to any server.

🚀Open HEIC to JPG Converter

100% Free · No account · Works on any device

How to use this tool

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Upload your HEIC files in FixTools from any Windows browser. Convert to JPG and open the downloaded files in Photos, Paint, or any Windows image viewer.

How It Works

Step-by-step guide to open heic files on windows:

1
Open FixTools in your Windows browser
Open Chrome, Edge, or Firefox on Windows and go to fixtools.io. Open the HEIC to JPG Converter.
2
Upload your HEIC file
Click "Upload" and navigate to the HEIC file on your Windows device — from Downloads, a USB drive, or OneDrive.
3
Convert to JPG
Click "Convert". The HEIC is processed in the browser and converted to a standard JPG.
4
Open the converted JPG
Download and open the JPG file in Windows Photos, Paint, or any other image application.