HEIC (High Efficiency Image File Format) is an image file format that Apple adopted in 2017 for photos taken on iPhones and iPads running iOS 11 or later. The main benefit of HEIC is that it uses better compression techniques to reduce file sizes by about 50% compared to JPEG images with equivalent image quality.
However, the HEIC format has limited compatibility with other devices and software. Many Windows computers and Android devices don’t support viewing or editing HEIC images natively. Additionally, popular photo editing software like Photoshop doesn’t fully support working with HEIC files.
That’s why you may want to convert batches of HEIC photos to the more widely compatible JPEG format. Here are the best methods for batch converting from HEIC to JPEG (JPG) on both Mac and Windows computers:
Table of Contents
Batch Convert HEIC to JPEG on Mac
Mac computers include built-in support for batch converting HEIC images to JPG using the Photos app or Preview app:
- Photos App – Select images > File > Export > JPEG. Set quality and destination folder.
- Preview – Select images > File > Export Selected Images > JPEG. Set quality and destination.
You can also use the Automator app to create a workflow for repeated batch conversions.
Batch Convert HEIC to JPEG on Windows
Windows doesn’t include native HEIC conversion tools. Here are some good third-party options:
- iMazing HEIC Converter – Free app, just drag-and-drop to convert, keeps EXIF data.
- Adobe Photoshop – Batch processing tool, set export format to JPEG.
- ImageMagick – Command line utility, scriptable batch conversions.
Other Windows options:
- Online conversion websites
- Paid converter software like XnConvert
Best Practices for Batch Converting HEIC to JPEG
Follow these tips when batch processing HEIC photo collections:
- Set JPEG quality to 80-90% to optimize file size and quality.
- Keep folder structure and filenames the same.
- Verify conversions before deleting originals.
- Use EXIF data preservation to retain metadata.
- Store backups of originals if needed.
Advantages of Converting from HEIC to JPEG
There are good reasons to put in the effort to batch convert those HEIC photos:
- Enhanced Compatibility – JPEG is supported everywhere.
- Smaller File Sizes – JPEG compression can reduce size with minimal quality loss.
- Easy Sharing – JPEG is the most common photo format for email and the web.
- Better Editing – More editing apps fully support manipulating JPEG images.
By taking the time to batch convert from HEIC to the more compatible JPEG format, you’ll be able to get more use from those photos you’ve taken on your iPhone or iPad.