Best Solutions to Open HEIC File Online 2023

Part 1: Overview of HEIC File

The HEIC file format is a proprietary version of the HEIF (High-Efficiency Image File) format. It was created by Apple to compress images in order to reduce their size and preserve their original quality. This makes it a better file format than JPEG as it protects image quality and saves space.

Space-saving:

To put things into perspective, a 2-megabyte HEIC file would require 4 megabytes if it was captured using the JPEG format. Although 2 megabytes might not be a lot, you could end up saving gigabytes if you take hundreds of pictures. Besides, file transfers will be quicker when you use the HEIC file format. The same goes for uploads over a cellular network.

Limited operation systems:

There is no denying that HEIC is a more versatile file format. However, you will need to put in more effort if you want to open HEIC files on other devices. The truth is that Linux and Windows do not recognize the format.

Even though HEIC is the default format for the iPhone, you will have to turn to a HEIC viewer online. Otherwise, you wouldn't be able to view your pictures. Moreover, only a few web browsers actually support the format. In most cases, the file type is selected as the background image for new tabs instead of opening directly.

Part 2: 5 Proven HEIC Viewers Online

1. Dropbox

Dropbox is an excellent HEIC viewer online that you need to try out. The network driver makes it possible for you to easily view the file format. What Dropbox does is it automatically changes the format into JPEG. Therefore, the files would be accepted by just about every platform.

You only need to use the Dropbox camera upload feature to upload pictures from your iPhone. Then, you can save them as JPEG pictures. Here's how you can convert HEIC to JPEG using the Dropbox app.

Step 1: Download the Dropbox app on your device.

Step 2: Open the Dropbox app and log into your account.

Step 3: Tap on the Gear icon located at the bottom of the screen.

Step 4: Choose Camera Uploads. You have to ensure that Camera Uploads have been enabled.

Step 5: You can select Save iPhone images as JPEG files at the bottom. That's about it.

Now, if the HEIC pictures have already been saved on Dropbox, you don't need to upload them. Instead, you just have to convert the files. The following steps help break down what should be done.

Step 1: Open the internet browser on your device.

Step 2: Type dropbox.com in the browser.

Step 3: Log into your Dropbox account.

Step 4: Find and open the HEIC image.

Step 5: Click on the image and choose Save Image as and select the desired format.

Pros

• Easy to use.
• Absolutely free.
• Provides instant results.

Cons

• Poor storage limit for free users.
• Limited search function.

2. Cloudconvert

Another tool that you can use to open HEIC files online is Cloudconvert. It allows you to open and view HEIC files on your computer. With just a click of a button, you can use it to convert HEIC files to JPEG. In fact, Cloudconvert even adjusts the image width, height, fit and quality.

The following steps will enable you to use Cloudconvert.

Step 1: Open Cloudconvert website.

Step 2: Select the files you want to convert

Step 3: Next, you just have to choose the required settings.

Step 4: Now, click on the "Convert" option and wait.

Pros

• You can perform batch conversion with just a click.
• Retains the data once the conversion is complete.
• Works offline.

Cons

• Only allows conversion to JPEG format.

3. HEIC.online

HEIC online is also a remarkable tool that will make your life a whole lot easier. It lets you convert HEIC files so that you can view them within seconds. All you have to do is follow the steps mentioned below.

Step 1: Simply drag and drop the HEIC file or select it from your device.

Step 2: Click on the desired output format.

Step 3: Select Convert and wait for the tool to work its magic.

Step 4: Download the converted file onto your device.

Pros

• Super quick.
• Requires minimal effort.
• Allows batch conversion.

Cons

• Only lets you convert files to JPEG and PNG.

4. FreeConvert

FreeConvert had to be included in the list of best solutions to open the HEIC file online. It is an effortless tool that delivers high-quality images in seconds. Even if the HEIC files have multiple images, you can use the tool to convert them.

You can take advantage of this HEIC viewer online by following the steps below.

Step 1: Select Choose Files and click on the HEIC file that you want to view.

Step 2: Click Convert to JPEG to begin the conversion process.

Step 3: Click Download JPEG once the status changes to Done.

Pros

• Maintains the quality of HEIC files.
• Supports HEIC files with multiple images.
• Completely free.

Cons

• Restricts the number of files you can convert.

5. Google Photos

Lastly, you can also use Google Photos to open HEIC online. It relies on your browser's image-saving capabilities to help you view your HEIC files.

Although Google Photos is not the most popular option, it lets you check out iPhone photos. The following steps will enable you to view and convert files in no time.

Step 1: Open your internet browser.

Step 2: Open the Google Photos website.

Step 3: Select the HEIC photo that you need to open in the JPEG format.

Step 4: The image will open in preview mode and you just have to select Save As.

Step 5: Finally: you can proceed with saving the new JPEG file on your computer.

Pros

• Relatively straightforward.
• Converts HEIC files quickly.

Cons

• Affects the quality of the HEIC images.

Bonus Tips: Easy HEIC Online Converter

Dr.Fone-HEIC Online Converter

If you want to use the ultimate HEIC viewer online, you have to try Dr.Fone. It lets you convert multiple HEIC files without affecting the image quality. You can use the tool to convert up to 10 files in one go. It helps keep your files safe by automatically deleting them within 24 hours.

It only takes 3 steps to convert your HEIC photos.

Step 1: Open Dr.Fone on your computer and select Phone Manager to connect with your device.

Step 2: Select the HEIC images that you need to convert.

Step 3: Click Export to download the new JPEG files on your device.

Pros

• Dr.Fone is easy to operate.
• It allows batch conversions.
• Very safe to use.

Cons

• Not all formats supported

Part 3: FAQs

1. Is HEIC Better Than JPEG?

When you compare HEIC and JPEG, you will realize that HEIC is a better option. It offers better image quality and compression capabilities. Apple has done a great job by introducing the HEIC format.

2. How to Store Photos as JPEG on My iPhone?

If you are an iPhone user, you can store photos in JPEG by following the steps mentioned below.

• Head over to Settings on your iPhone.
• Select Camera and then you will come across different options.
• You have to tap Formats to change the format to Most Compatible from High Efficiency.

That is about it. All your pictures will now be saved as JPEGs. You can also change the format back to HEIC with the same steps.

Conclusion

HEIC is an excellent file format that expertly compresses images and retains high quality. However, it is not universally compatible with devices that stick to PNG and JPEG. This is why you have no option but to convert your HEIC files if you want to view them.

As covered in the article, there are various solutions available for converting HEIC images quickly. You can use any of the tools to convert the files into the desired format. However, you should consider using Wondershare HEIC Online Converter if you want a fast batch HEIC conversion.