How to turn off HEIC on iPhone

4 min read 01-11-2024

How to Turn Off HEIC on iPhone

The iPhone's HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) format is a great way to save storage space and get high-quality images, but sometimes you just need to stick with the tried and true JPEG format. Maybe you're working with a program that doesn't support HEIC files, or perhaps you just prefer the familiar JPEG format for your workflow. Whatever the reason, it's good to know that you can easily switch off HEIC on your iPhone.

We'll walk you through the process of turning off HEIC on your iPhone, explain the advantages and disadvantages of using HEIC, and address some common questions about this image format.

Understanding HEIC vs. JPEG: A Battle of the Formats

Before we dive into the technical aspects, let's understand the core difference between HEIC and JPEG.

JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group): The JPEG format is the longtime standard for digital images. It's a well-established format known for its compatibility with various software and devices. However, JPEGs are known to be larger in file size, especially when you want to capture images with high resolution and detail.
HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container): Introduced by Apple, HEIC is a newer image format that promises to achieve the same quality as JPEGs but at a much smaller file size. This format is great for saving space on your phone and for smoother sharing experiences, especially when sending large images through messaging apps.

Think of it this way: JPEG is like a well-worn pair of jeans – comfortable, reliable, and everyone knows what they are. HEIC is like a new pair of stylish jeans with innovative features that make them better for the environment and your wardrobe.

The Advantages of HEIC:

HEIC offers a few key advantages over JPEG:

Smaller File Sizes: This is the main selling point of HEIC. Smaller files mean less storage space consumed on your iPhone and faster upload and download speeds.
High Image Quality: HEIC can maintain a high level of detail and image quality even at smaller file sizes. You won't be sacrificing image quality for that space saving.
Better Compression: HEIC uses advanced compression technology, which means that it can squeeze more information into a smaller file. This allows for better image quality at a smaller size compared to JPEG.

The Disadvantages of HEIC:

While HEIC offers many advantages, it's not without its drawbacks.

Compatibility Issues: The primary downside of HEIC is that it isn't as widely supported as JPEG. Some older software or devices may not be able to open HEIC files directly, requiring you to convert them.
Conversion Hassle: Converting HEIC files to JPEG can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you're working with a large number of images.

How to Turn Off HEIC on iPhone:

Here's how to disable HEIC on your iPhone and stick with the classic JPEG format:

Open Settings: Find the Settings app on your iPhone's home screen and tap on it.
Go to Camera: In the Settings app, scroll down and tap on "Camera."
Find Formats: Within the Camera settings, you'll find a section called "Formats." Tap on this option.
Choose Most Compatible: You'll see two options: "Most Compatible" and "High Efficiency." Select "Most Compatible" to disable HEIC and use JPEG instead.

That's it! You've successfully switched your iPhone to use JPEG instead of HEIC. You'll now see all your photos captured in the JPEG format, ensuring compatibility with most devices and software.

How to Convert HEIC to JPEG:

If you've already captured photos in HEIC format and need to convert them to JPEG, don't worry! There are several ways to do this.

Option 1: Using Your iPhone:

Open Photos: Find the "Photos" app on your iPhone.
Select Images: Choose the HEIC images you want to convert.
Share Options: Tap on the "Share" button (the square with an arrow pointing upward) in the bottom left corner of the screen.
Save as JPEG: Scroll down the share sheet and you'll see "Save as JPEG." Tap on this option to convert the selected images to JPEG format.

Option 2: Using a Mac:

Open Preview: Find the "Preview" app on your Mac.
Import HEIC Files: Open the HEIC files you want to convert.
Export as JPEG: Go to "File" > "Export" and choose "JPEG" as the format.

Option 3: Using Online Converters:

There are various online HEIC to JPEG converters available on the web. Just do a quick search for "HEIC to JPEG converter" and choose a reputable service.

Note: Converting HEIC files to JPEG might result in slightly larger file sizes compared to the original HEIC files.

FAQs:

Why should I turn off HEIC if it saves storage space?
- If compatibility with older software or devices is a concern, or if you prefer JPEG for your specific workflow, turning off HEIC might be the better option.
Is there any way to use HEIC without compatibility issues?
- You can consider using HEIC-compatible software or devices. Many popular editing programs and cloud storage services now support HEIC.
Will turning off HEIC impact the quality of my photos?
- No, turning off HEIC will not affect the image quality of your photos. You'll still capture high-resolution images, just in the JPEG format.
What if I have already captured photos in HEIC format?
- You can convert them to JPEG using your iPhone, a Mac, or online converters as described above.
Can I send HEIC photos to people using non-Apple devices?
- It is possible, but it's best to use JPEG to ensure compatibility. Many messaging apps and platforms might automatically convert HEIC files to JPEG, but this can sometimes lead to a decrease in image quality.

Conclusion:

Choosing between HEIC and JPEG ultimately comes down to your specific needs and priorities. If you prioritize storage space and aren't concerned about compatibility, HEIC is a fantastic option. But if you're working with software that doesn't support HEIC or if compatibility is a concern, sticking with JPEG might be the way to go. The good news is that you have the flexibility to switch between these formats on your iPhone, allowing you to choose the best option for your specific situation.