How to Save iPhone Photos as JPG Instead of HEIC

Products: Apple iPhone (iOS 11 and later)
Applies to: All iPhone users who want photos saved in JPG format

Overview

By default, iPhones save photos in the HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) format. HEIC offers smaller file sizes while maintaining image quality, but some computers, websites, and applications may not support it.
This article explains how to change your iPhone settings so that new photos are automatically saved in JPG format instead of HEIC.

1. Change Camera Format to Save New Photos as JPG

Follow these steps to have your iPhone camera save all new photos as JPG:

Open the Settings app.
Scroll down and tap Camera.
Tap Formats.
Under Camera Capture, select Most Compatible.

Result:
Your iPhone will now save new photos as JPG (and videos as H.264) instead of HEIC and HEVC.

2. Automatically Convert HEIC Photos When Transferring to a Computer

If you prefer to keep HEIC on your iPhone but want JPG copies when transferring photos to your computer:

Open Settings → Photos.
Scroll down to Transfer to Mac or PC.
Select Automatic (instead of Keep Originals).

Result:
When you import photos via USB, AirDrop, or Finder, your iPhone automatically converts them to JPG for better compatibility.

3. Convert Existing HEIC Photos to JPG

If you already have photos saved in HEIC format, you can convert them using one of the methods below.

A. Convert on iPhone using Shortcuts

Open the Shortcuts app.
Tap Gallery and search for Convert Image.
Add the shortcut and select JPEG as the format.
Run the shortcut on your HEIC photos to convert them.

B. Convert on a Computer

Mac: Open the photo in Preview, then go to File → Export → Format: JPEG.
Windows: Open the photo in Paint, then go to File → Save As → JPEG.

4. Common Mistakes

Changing the format after taking photos does not convert existing HEIC images.
Selecting Keep Originals under Transfer to Mac or PC will keep the HEIC format even if “Most Compatible” is selected.
Some cloud backup services (like iCloud Photos) may still store the HEIC version to save space.

5. Tips

If you frequently email, upload, or share photos with older systems or websites, use Most Compatible (JPG).
If you want to conserve storage and maintain maximum quality, keep High Efficiency (HEIC).
You can switch between formats anytime without affecting photos already saved on your device.

Summary Table

Purpose Setting Path Recommended Option Save new photos as JPG Settings → Camera → Formats Most Compatible Convert when transferring Settings → Photos → Transfer to Mac or PC Automatic Convert existing photos Shortcuts or Export Tool JPEG