iPhone Guide
How to Stop iPhone Saving Photos as HEIC
Updated: January 2025 | Works on iOS 17, 18+
Tired of HEIC files that won't open on your Windows PC or upload to certain websites? This quick guide shows you how to switch your iPhone back to capturing photos in the universally compatible JPG format.
Method 1: Change Camera Format to JPG
This permanently changes how your iPhone saves new photos:
Step 1:
Open the Settings app on your iPhone
Step 2:
Scroll down and tap Camera
Step 3:
Tap Formats
Step 4:
Select "Most Compatible" instead of "High Efficiency"
What This Changes:
- Photos: HEIC → JPG
- Videos: HEVC (H.265) → H.264
- File sizes will be larger (about 2x)
Method 2: Auto-Convert When Transferring (Recommended)
Keep HEIC on your phone (saving space) but automatically convert to JPG when transferring to a computer:
Step 1:
Open Settings
Step 2:
Tap Photos
Step 3:
Scroll to "Transfer to Mac or PC"
Step 4:
Select "Automatic"
Why This is Better:
- Keeps HEIC on phone (saves 50% storage)
- Automatically converts when transferring
- Best of both worlds!
Which Method Should You Choose?
| Method | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Change to JPG | Simple, always compatible | 2x larger files, uses more storage |
| Auto-Convert | Saves phone storage | Only converts during USB transfer |
Our recommendation: Use Method 2 (Auto-Convert) if you have limited iPhone storage. Use Method 1 (Change to JPG) if you frequently share photos via email, messaging apps, or websites that don't support HEIC.
Already Have HEIC Files? Convert Them
Changing these settings only affects future photos. For existing HEIC files, use our free converter:
FAQ
Q: Will switching to JPG affect photo quality?
A: For most users, the difference is imperceptible. JPG quality is still excellent for everyday photography.
Q: Will this convert my existing HEIC photos to JPG?
A: No, this only affects new photos. Use our converter for existing HEIC files.
Q: Will Live Photos still work?
A: Yes, Live Photos will still work but will take up more space when saved as JPG + video.
Q: Can I switch back to HEIC later?
A: Yes, just go back to Settings → Camera → Formats and select "High Efficiency".
Need to convert existing HEIC photos?
Free HEIC to JPG Converter