Step-by-Step: Turn Off HEIC and Save as JPEG on iPhone
Since iOS 11, Apple sets the default camera format to “High Efficiency” (HEIC) to conserve internal iCloud storage. While efficient, HEIC creates frustrating compatibility problems when sharing photos with Windows PCs, Android phones, email attachments, and web applications. Follow these steps to switch to standard JPEG:
Launch the Settings app on your iPhone, scroll down past General and Privacy, and tap Camera.
At the very top of the Camera menu, tap Formats. You will see two options: High Efficiency and Most Compatible.
Tap Most Compatible. A blue checkmark will appear next to it. From this second onward, your camera sensor records photos directly in standard JPEG format.
Open your Camera app, take a photo, swipe up in Apple Photos to inspect image details, and confirm the badge displays JPEG instead of HEIF/HEIC.
If you want to keep saving storage on your iPhone but never want to see an unreadable .heic file on your Windows computer, iOS has a built-in auto-conversion switch:
- Go to Settings > Photos.
- Scroll to the very bottom to the section titled Transfer to Mac or PC.
- Select Automatic (instead of Keep Originals).
Now, whenever you plug your iPhone into your Windows laptop via Lightning or USB-C cable, Windows File Explorer will display and copy standard .jpg files automatically!
High Efficiency vs. Most Compatible: Which Should You Use?
Here is a factual comparison of both modes to help you choose the right setting for your photography and storage needs:
| Feature / Metric | High Efficiency (HEIC) | Most Compatible (JPEG) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Photo File Size | 1.5 MB – 2.5 MB (40-50% smaller) | 3.0 MB – 5.5 MB |
| Windows 10 / 11 Compatibility | Requires codec or web converter | 100% Native (Photos, Paint, Word) |
| Government & Visa Uploads | Rejected by most portals | Universally accepted |
| 4K 60fps & Cinematic Video | Fully Supported | Requires HEVC fallback |
| 16-bit Color & Live Photos | Supported natively | Standard 8-bit sRGB |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make my iPhone take JPG instead of HEIC?
Open the Settings app on your iPhone, scroll down and tap 'Camera', tap 'Formats', and select 'Most Compatible'. All new photos captured with your camera will immediately save as standard JPEG (.jpg) files instead of HEIC.
Will switching to 'Most Compatible' degrade my photo quality?
No. Visual image fidelity is virtually indistinguishable between Apple's HEIC and JPEG. The only difference is file size—JPEG files use standard DCT compression which takes roughly 30% to 50% more storage space than HEIC's HEVC compression.
Why does Apple still force 'High Efficiency' for certain camera modes?
Apple requires High Efficiency (HEIC/HEVC) for high-bandwidth features such as 4K video at 60 frames per second, 1080p slow-motion at 240 fps, and Cinematic/Spatial video recording. If you shoot standard photos and 1080p/4K 30fps video, 'Most Compatible' works flawlessly.
How can I automatically convert HEIC to JPG when transferring to a Windows PC?
Go to Settings > Photos on your iPhone. Scroll down to the bottom section titled 'Transfer to Mac or PC' and choose 'Automatic'. When you connect your iPhone to a Windows PC via USB or import photos, iOS automatically converts HEIC photos to JPG during transmission without altering your camera settings.
Will changing this setting convert my existing HEIC photos?
No. Changing the camera format only affects newly captured photos. To convert your existing HEIC photo library on your computer or phone, use our free batch HEIC to JPG converter on this page.