HEIC is the image file type many iPhones use to store high-quality photos in smaller files than traditional JPEG.
HEIC often uses HEVC-based image compression.
It can make smaller photo files than JPEG.
JPEG is still more universally compatible.
HEIC stands for High Efficiency Image Container. It is a file type based on HEIF, the High Efficiency Image File Format.
iPhones use HEIC because it can store good-looking photos in smaller files than JPEG, and it can support modern features such as depth information, bursts, and image sequences.
| Format | Strength | Trade-off |
|---|---|---|
| HEIC | Smaller files and modern features | Less universal compatibility |
| JPEG | Works almost everywhere | Larger files at similar quality and older compression |
HEIC stands for High Efficiency Image Container.
HEIC is used for storing photos, especially on iPhones and Apple devices, with efficient compression.
HEIC can be more efficient than JPEG, but JPEG is still more universally compatible.
Your iPhone may use HEIC to save storage space while keeping photo quality high.
Convert HEIC to JPEG when you need maximum compatibility with older apps, websites, or devices.