Image format
What is a HEIC file?
HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is Apple's default photo format on iPhone, storing photos at roughly half the size of an equivalent JPG.
HEIC is Apple's implementation of the HEIF standard, built on the same efficient compression techniques used in modern video codecs. Since 2017, it's been the default format iPhones save photos in, because it can hold noticeably more detail than an equivalent JPEG at half the file size — useful when a phone's storage is finite and photo libraries only grow. The catch is compatibility: outside Apple's own ecosystem, and outside apps that have specifically added HEIC support, it's common to hit a device or website that simply won't open it, which is the single biggest reason people convert HEIC photos to JPEG before sharing them.
How to open a HEIC file
HEIC files open readily in macOS Preview, iOS Photos, Windows 10/11 (with the HEIF extension installed). For real editing rather than just viewing, reach for Adobe Photoshop (recent versions), Apple Photos.
Most non-Apple software still can't open HEIC directly — converting to JPG is the most reliable fix.
Strengths & limitations
Good for
- excellent compression efficiency
- supports transparency and image sequences
Watch out for
- poor support outside Apple's ecosystem
Frequently asked questions
What does a HEIC file contain?+
HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is Apple's default photo format on iPhone, storing photos at roughly half the size of an equivalent JPG.
Can I convert HEIC on Orbfile?+
Not currently — HEIC needs a codec Orbfile can't ship under a permissive, production-safe open-source license, so there's no converter for it here. See Most non-Apple software still can't open HEIC directly — converting to JPG is the most reliable fix. for how to open one instead.
Is converting a HEIC file safe and private?+
Yes. Orbfile processes HEIC files locally on your device using WebAssembly — nothing is uploaded to a server, so there's nothing to leak or store.
Who created the HEIC format?+
HEIC was developed by Apple, based on the MPEG HEIF standard, first released around 2017.
Browse the full file format guide.