Step-by-Step Guide to Converting HEIC Files to JPEG on iPhone Without Apps

Since the launch of iOS 11, iPhones have defaulted to saving images in the HEIC/HEIF format, which often goes unnoticed until you experience compatibility issues when exporting those images. This can lead to the tedious necessity of converting HEIC files to JPEG format manually. Thankfully, there are efficient methods available that allow your iPhone to convert these files without requiring any third-party applications. Below, we’ll explore how to navigate this process smoothly.

The Rationale Behind HEIC as the Default Format on iPhones

HEIC, or High Efficiency Image Coding, is Apple’s proprietary format designed for storing photos using the HEIF standard. The format is based on the H.265 codec, which significantly compresses image files while maintaining quality similar to that of JPEGs, but at a much smaller size.

The primary reason for Apple’s adoption of HEIC is its efficiency, which effectively halves the file size compared to traditional JPEGs. This leads to quicker iCloud synchronization and reduces bandwidth usage when sharing images.

To check the format of an image, open the Photos app, select the desired image, and tap the information button (i) located at the bottom.

Details about the file format will be listed next to your iPhone’s model. In some instances, simply tapping the image’s name at the top will indicate if it’s a HEIC file.

For those using the Preview app, tap the i button at the bottom to view the complete details. Look for entries labeled File Name or Kind to identify the format.

Checking For HEIC Format in Preview on iPhone

How to Convert a HEIC File to JPEG on Your iPhone

If you want to sidestep any compatibility issues, it’s advisable to convert HEIC images to JPEG before sharing them. Here’s a streamlined approach to do so:

Open the Photos app and select the image you wish to convert. Tap the Share icon.
Select Copy Photo from the sharing options.

Sharing photo from Photos app on iPhone.

Copying Photo Option in Photos App on iPhone.

Launch the Files app and choose On My iPhone (you may need to navigate back to reach the Browse screen).
Long press on an empty area and select Paste.

The image will now appear as a JPEG in the Files app, ready for use.

Converted HEIC to JPEG in Files App on iPhone.

Sending Images via Email for Automatic Conversion

Another simple method to convert HEIC files to JPEG is through email. When an image is attached in an email, it is automatically converted. To do this:

Open the Photos app and select the image.
Tap the Share icon and choose the Mail app (or another email service) to attach the image to a new email.
Send the email to yourself.

Sharing HEIC image to Mail app for conversion.

Once you receive the email, you’ll find that the attachment has been converted to JPEG.

Creating a Shortcut for Bulk Conversion

If you often need to convert multiple HEIC files at once, consider setting up a shortcut for bulk conversions. Follow these steps:

Open the Shortcuts app and tap the + icon in the top right corner.
Utilize the Search Actions field to find the Select Photos action.

Finding Actions in Shortcuts for Select Photos.

Search for the Convert Image action and ensure the output format is set to JPEG. If it is not, click to change the file format to JPEG.

Adding Multiple Actions in Shortcuts on iPhone.

Look for Save to Photos, which defaults to the Recents album (you can change it if desired).
Rename your shortcut by clicking the downward arrow at the top. You can also opt to Add to Home Screen for quicker access.

Renaming a new shortcut in Shortcuts app on iPhone.

Adding Shortcut to Home Screen in Shortcuts app.

Upon executing this shortcut, your iPhone will prompt you to select the images for conversion. After a brief wait, the JPEG files will be available in your designated folder.

Changing the Default File Format to JPEG

If you prefer to avoid any conversion hassles altogether, you can adjust your iPhone settings to save images directly as JPEG instead of HEIC. Navigate to Settings → Camera → Formats on your device.

Change the setting from High Efficiency to Most Compatible, which will configure your camera to save images in JPEG format by default.

Setting Most Compatible in iPhone Settings.

However, if you receive an HEIC image, you will still need to convert it using one of the methods described above. Here are your options for Windows users if you need assistance with HEIC file conversion.

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