Introh
Not a lot to say, trying to find a fucking HEIC viewer that wasn’t heinous
Best Solution — Microsoft HEIF Image Extensions
Install the codec from the Microsoft Store. Once installed, HEIC files open natively in the Windows Photos app — double click to open, arrow keys to browse. No extra app, no conversion needed.
Microsoft Store link: https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9pmmsr1cgpwg?hl=en-GB&gl=AU
Free vs Paid
- The standard Microsoft version costs $0.99
- A free OEM/Device Manufacturer version may be available depending on your device — check the Store listing first before paying
Also Required — HEVC Video Extensions
Most modern iPhone photos use HEVC compression, so the HEIF codec alone isn’t enough. You’ll also need the HEVC Video Extensions from the Store.
Search “HEVC Video Extensions” in the Microsoft Store — same deal as above, check for a free device manufacturer version first before paying (~$1.49 for the paid version).
Alternative — ImageGlass (Recommended Standalone Viewer)
ImageGlass is a clean, open-source image viewer that handles HEIC well. Free Classic version available — the MS Store version is $15.
Download (Classic, free): https://imageglass.org/release/imageglass-9-4-1-15-61
Still requires the HEIF/HEVC codecs above to be installed.
Setting as Default
ImageGlass won’t appear in the default apps list automatically — you need to set it manually:
- Right-click a HEIC file → Open with → Choose another app
- Scroll down and click More apps or Look for another app on this PC
- Navigate to
C:\Program Files\ImageGlass\and select the.exe
Fallback — CopyTrans Viewer
If the codec route doesn’t work, CopyTrans Viewer is the community favourite standalone app. Free, clean interface, arrow navigation, no conversion required.
https://copytrans.studio/copytrans-viewer/
Notes
- HEIC is Apple’s image format (iPhone default since iOS 11)
- Windows has no native HEIC support without the codecs installed
- Both HEIF and HEVC extensions are needed for most iPhone photos
- Check if you already own the extensions on another PC before purchasing — licences are tied to your Microsoft account