HEIC
High Efficiency Image Container
What is HEIC?
HEIC (High Efficiency Image Container) is a modern image format based on the HEVC (H.265) video codec. It is the default photo format on Apple devices (iPhone and iPad) since iOS 11. HEIC delivers significantly better compression than JPEG, producing files roughly half the size while maintaining equivalent or better visual quality. It also supports depth maps, HDR, and image sequences.
Key Features
Common Use Cases
Advantages
- Roughly 50% smaller than JPEG at similar quality
- Supports HDR and wide color gamut
- Supports transparency
- Can store image sequences and depth maps
- Default format on Apple devices
- Excellent visual quality at small sizes
Limitations
- Limited Windows and Android support without additional codecs
- Patent-encumbered (HEVC licensing)
- Not supported by web browsers
- Requires conversion for sharing on many platforms
- Limited support in image editing software
Convert HEIC Files
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