How to Make Your iPhone Save Photos as JPG Instead of HEIC
Published: 2026-10-06
If HEIC files keep causing trouble every time you move photos to a PC or another device, you can make your iPhone save JPG from the start. The change takes a minute, but it is worth knowing the trade-offs first.
How to change the setting
From now on, photos are saved as JPG and videos as H.264. Photos you already took stay in HEIC.
- Open the Settings app.
- Tap “Camera”.
- Tap “Formats”.
- Choose “Most Compatible” instead of “High Efficiency”.
Before you switch
- Storage: a JPG is often close to twice the size of the same photo in HEIC, so your iPhone and iCloud storage fill up faster.
- Features: depending on the model, some high-resolution or advanced capture modes are only available with “High Efficiency”.
- Quality: for everyday photos there is no obvious visible difference.
Alternatives that keep HEIC
If storage is tight, keep “High Efficiency” and convert only when needed.
- Cable transfers: set Settings → Apps → Photos → Transfer to Mac or PC to “Automatic”.
- HEIC files already on your PC: convert them in bulk with the HEIC to JPG converter.
- Messaging apps: many apps convert photos to JPG automatically when you send them.