How to Convert HEIC Photos to JPEG on Mac or iPhone

Apple introduced the HEIC (High-Efficiency Image Container) format as a space-saving way to store photos without compromising quality. While HEIC is fantastic for reducing file sizes, it isn’t always compatible with every device, app, or platform. That’s why many users still prefer the widely supported JPEG format.

If you’ve ever tried to upload a HEIC photo to a website, send it to a friend with an Android phone, or edit it in software that doesn’t recognize the format, you’ve probably realized the need to convert HEIC files to JPEG.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to convert HEIC photos to JPEG on both Mac and iPhone, with step-by-step instructions and helpful tips.

Why Convert HEIC to JPEG?

Before we dive into the process, let’s quickly look at why you may need to convert your images:

• Compatibility: JPEG is universally supported across all devices, apps, and browsers.
• Editing: Many third-party editing tools work better with JPEG than HEIC.
• Sharing: JPEG ensures your friends and colleagues can open your photos without format issues.
• Printing: Printing services often prefer JPEGs.

How to Convert HEIC to JPEG on iPhone

Apple makes it fairly simple to change your photo format directly from your iPhone. Here are a few ways to do it:

1. Change Camera Settings to Save as JPEG Automatically

If you don’t want to deal with conversions later, you can set your iPhone to capture photos in JPEG instead of HEIC.

Steps:

1. Open Settings.
2. Scroll down and tap Camera.
3. Select Formats.
4. Choose Most Compatible instead of High Efficiency.

Now, every new photo you take will automatically save as JPEG.

2. Use the Files App to Convert Photos

You can quickly convert a HEIC photo into JPEG using the built-in Files app.

Steps:

1. Open the Photos app and select the HEIC photo you want to convert.
2. Tap the Share button and choose Save to Files.
3. Go to the Files app, locate the saved photo, and share it via Mail or Messages — it will automatically convert to JPEG in most cases.

3. Export from the Photos App

Another way to get JPEGs is to export them directly from the Photos app.

Steps:

1. Open the Photos app.
2. Select the HEIC photo.
3. Tap Share > Mail.
4. When sending, the iPhone converts the photo to JPEG automatically.

4. Use a Third-Party App

There are several free apps on the App Store, like HEIC to JPEG or iMazing HEIC Converter, that allow bulk conversion.

Best for: When you need to convert multiple photos at once.

How to Convert HEIC to JPEG on Mac

Mac users also have several built-in and third-party options.

1. Use the Preview App (Built-in)

The simplest way to convert HEIC to JPEG on Mac is through Preview.

Steps:

1. Right-click your HEIC photo and choose Open With > Preview.
2. Once opened, click File > Export.
3. In the format drop-down menu, select JPEG.
4. Adjust quality settings if needed and click Save.

2. Use the Photos App on Mac

If your images are already in the Photos app:

Steps:

1. Open the Photos app on your Mac.
2. Select the photo(s) you want to convert.
3. Go to File > Export > Export [X] Photos.
4. Choose JPEG as the format and click Export.

3. Use Automator for Bulk Conversion

If you have hundreds of HEIC photos, using Automator is a time-saver.

Steps:

1. Open Automator from Applications.
2. Create a new Quick Action.
3. Add the action Change Type of Images and select JPEG.
4. Save the workflow.
5. Now, you can right-click any HEIC file, go to Quick Actions, and select your conversion workflow.

4. Online Tools

If you don’t want to install anything, you can use free websites like heictojpg.com or cloudconvert.com to convert HEIC to JPEG.

Note: Be cautious with personal or sensitive photos when using online tools.

5. Use Third-Party Software

Apps like iMazing HEIC Converter or Pixillion Image Converter give you more flexibility, such as batch conversions and size adjustments.

Tips for Managing HEIC and JPEG

• Storage vs Compatibility: HEIC files save space, but JPEGs are easier to use. Keep both when possible.
• Backups: Always back up your originals in iCloud, Google Photos, or an external drive before converting.
• Batch Conversions: For large collections, Automator on Mac or third-party apps are your best bet.

Final Thoughts

HEIC is an efficient format, but JPEG remains the universal standard. Thankfully, both iPhone and Mac make it easy to convert your photos when you need to. Whether you change your camera settings to save as JPEG, use the Photos or Preview apps, or rely on third-party tools, you’ll always have a way to make your images more compatible.

So, the next time you run into a website or service that rejects your HEIC files, you’ll know exactly how to convert them to JPEG quickly and easily.