HEIC is a photo format mostly used by iPhones and iPads. Photos saved in HEIC look very clear, but the file size is smaller compared to JPG or PNG. This is why Apple uses it. The problem is that not every software can open HEIC easily. Many people face issues when they try to open HEIC files in Photoshop. Sometimes Photoshop does not support it directly, and the picture will not open.
But don’t worry. In this guide, we will show you how to open HEIC files in Photoshop step by step. We will explain the method for both Windows users and Mac users. After that, you will also learn how to edit HEIC files once they are opened.
If Photoshop still doesn’t open your HEIC photo, there is an easy solution. You can simply convert your HEIC into JPG using our free online converter tool. Once the file is converted, Photoshop will open it without any problem.
A HEIC file is a photo format mostly used on iPhones and iPads. Many people ask, “Why can’t Photoshop open HEIC files?” The reason is simple: while HEIC keeps the photo quality high and the file size small, not all software can read it. Older versions of Photoshop cannot open HEIC directly. If you try, you may see an error message or the file will not load.
To fix this problem, you need the latest Photoshop version that supports HEIC. If that still doesn’t work, the best solution is to convert HEIC into JPG using our free online converter tool. After converting, the photo will open in Photoshop smoothly without any issue.
What is a HEIC File?
A HEIC file is a type of photo format used by many Apple devices, like iPhones and iPads. Instead of saving photos as JPG or PNG, Apple uses HEIC because it gives better image quality while keeping the file size smaller. This means you can store more pictures on your phone without filling up the memory quickly.
The full form of HEIC is High Efficiency Image Container, and it is based on a standard called HEIF (High Efficiency Image Format). While this format is very good for saving space, the big problem is that many programs and computers do not support it.
For example, some people try to open a HEIC photo in Photoshop and it doesn’t work. Older versions of Photoshop don’t understand HEIC files at all. That’s why many users see an error when they try.
To work with these files, you need either a new version of Photoshop that supports HEIC or you can convert HEIC to JPG using a free online tool. Once converted, your photos will be easy to open, edit, and share anywhere.
Does Photoshop Support HEIC Files?
Many people ask, “Does Photoshop support HEIC files?” The answer is yes, but only in newer versions. If you are using Photoshop CC 2018 (version 19.1) or later, then Photoshop can open HEIC images. On Mac computers, support is usually built-in, so you can open HEIC files without extra steps. But on Windows, you may need to install some extensions before Photoshop can read HEIC photos.
If you are using an older Photoshop version, it will not open HEIC at all. You might see an error message or the file may not appear in the open dialog. This is why many users get confused when trying to work with HEIC images.
So, the short answer is: Yes, Photoshop supports HEIC, but only if your software is updated. If it doesn’t work, the best option is to convert HEIC to JPG using a free online converter tool. After conversion, Photoshop will handle the photo without any problems.
How to Open HEIC Files in Photoshop
Opening HEIC files in Photoshop can be tricky for many users, especially if you are working on an older version of the software. Photoshop now supports HEIC, but only in its newer releases and with the right system setup. If you are using Windows, you may need to install extra extensions before the files work. On a Mac, HEIC support is usually built-in, but an updated Photoshop is still required. Don’t worry—whether you are on Windows or Mac, we’ll explain step by step how to open HEIC photos.
And if Photoshop still refuses, you can easily use our free HEIC to JPG converter tool to fix the issue in seconds.
How to Open HEIC Files in Photoshop (For Windows Users)
Opening HEIC files in Photoshop on Windows can feel difficult at first, because Windows does not always support this format by default. If you try to open a HEIC photo, Photoshop may show an error message or simply fail to load the file. Don’t worry — the process is simple if you follow a few steps.
The first thing you need is the latest version of Photoshop. Older versions like Photoshop CS6 or very early CC releases cannot handle HEIC at all. So, make sure your Photoshop is CC 2018 (version 19.1) or later. You can check the version from the “Help > About Photoshop” option in the menu.
Next, Windows requires two special add-ons from the Microsoft Store:
- HEIF Image Extensions – allows Windows to read HEIC format.
- HEVC Video Extensions – supports the type of compression used in HEIC files.
Without these extensions, even if Photoshop is updated, the files may not open. After installing them, restart your computer to apply the changes.
How to Open FILE in Photoshop
Now, open Photoshop and follow these steps:
- Go to File > Open.
- Browse your computer and select the HEIC image.
- Photoshop should now load the file like any other picture.
If the image still doesn’t open, don’t get frustrated. Sometimes Windows setups behave differently. In that case, the fastest solution is to convert the HEIC into JPG using our free online converter tool. Once converted, the JPG file will open in Photoshop instantly without any errors.
How to Open HEIC Files in Photoshop (For Mac Users)
If you are a Mac user, opening HEIC files in Photoshop is usually easier compared to Windows. This is because Apple created the HEIC format, so macOS already understands it. Most modern Macs, especially those running macOS High Sierra (10.13) or later, support HEIC without any extra setup.
The first step is to check your macOS version. If your system is very old, you may need to update it. Newer versions like macOS Mojave, Catalina, Big Sur, or Ventura already have HEIC support built-in. Once your operating system is ready, you need to ensure your Photoshop is updated. Like Windows, only Photoshop CC 2018 (version 19.1) or later can open HEIC files directly.
Here’s how you can do it:
- Open Photoshop on your Mac.
- Go to File > Open.
- Find your HEIC photo in the folder and click open.
- The file should load just like a JPG or PNG.
In most cases, Mac users will not face problems. But if your Photoshop version is too old, you may see an error or the file may not appear. In that case, you have two options: either update Photoshop to the latest version, or use our free online HEIC to JPG converter tool.
By converting to JPG, you make sure your photo will open in any version of Photoshop without errors. This method is quick, safe, and works every time.
How to Edit HEIC Files in Photoshop
Once you have successfully opened a HEIC file in Photoshop, editing it is almost the same as working with any other image format, like JPG or PNG. The good news is that once the file is loaded, Photoshop does not treat it differently. You can use all the normal editing tools to improve your photo and make changes.
Here are some of the things you can do with HEIC files inside Photoshop:
- Basic Adjustments – You can fix the brightness, contrast, and colors of the photo. For example, if the picture looks too dark, you can make it lighter.
- Crop and Resize – If you only want a part of the photo or you need it in a smaller size, you can crop or resize it easily.
- Filters and Effects – Photoshop allows you to apply artistic filters, blur, sharpness, or effects to make your HEIC photo more creative.
- Retouching – Use tools like the healing brush or clone stamp to remove spots, marks, or unwanted objects from your picture.
- Text and Layers – Add text, shapes, and layers to create designs, posters, or banners.
When you finish editing, you should save or export the file in a common format. The best option is to save it as JPG, PNG, or PSD. This way, your edited photo will be easy to share and open on any device or software.
If Photoshop gives trouble with HEIC at any stage, remember you can always use our free HEIC to JPG converter tool before editing. It guarantees smooth editing every time.
How to Convert HEIC into JPG Using Our Free Tool
Sometimes even after updating Photoshop, you may still face problems while opening a HEIC file. In such cases, the best solution is to change the HEIC file into a JPG. JPG is the most common photo format in the world and works with all versions of Photoshop without errors. That’s why we created our free online HEIC to JPG converter tool. It is simple, quick, and anyone can use it without needing advanced knowledge.
Here’s how you can use our tool step by step:
- Open our HEIC to JPG converter tool in your browser.
- Click on the Upload button and select your HEIC photo from your device.
- Wait a few seconds while the tool automatically converts your file into JPG.
- Once the conversion is finished, click on Download to save the JPG photo to your computer or mobile.
- Now open Photoshop and import your new JPG photo for editing.
Our converter is designed to be fast, free, and safe. Your photos are not stored or shared; they are only converted, which keeps your privacy secure. The tool works on both Windows and Mac, and even on mobile phones.
So, if Photoshop refuses to open your HEIC file, don’t waste time searching for other complicated fixes. Just use our free HEIC to JPG converter, and within seconds, you’ll be able to continue editing your photos in Photoshop without any issues.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even after updating Photoshop and installing the right extensions, some users may still face problems with HEIC files. This is normal, because every computer setup is a little different. The good news is that there are some easy troubleshooting tips you can follow to fix these issues.
First, always make sure you are using the latest version of Photoshop. Many times, people forget to update and then wonder why HEIC is not opening. Updates fix bugs and add new features, so this step is very important.
Second, if you are a Windows user, check that the HEIF Image Extensions and HEVC Video Extensions are properly installed from the Microsoft Store. If they are missing or outdated, Photoshop will not recognize HEIC files. Reinstalling them usually solves the issue.
Third, try opening the HEIC file in another program, like the Windows Photos app or Preview on Mac. If it opens there, the file is not corrupted. If it doesn’t open anywhere, the file itself may be damaged.
Finally, if nothing works, the quickest solution is to use our free HEIC to JPG converter tool. Converting your photo into JPG removes all compatibility problems and allows Photoshop to open the file without errors. This method is reliable, simple, and works on every device.
By following these tips, you can make sure your HEIC files open and edit smoothly in Photoshop every time.
Conclusion
Working with HEIC files in Photoshop can feel confusing at first, especially for people who are used to the common JPG or PNG formats. But once you understand the basics, it becomes very easy. The most important thing to remember is that Photoshop only supports HEIC in newer versions. So, whether you are on Windows or Mac, keeping both your operating system and Photoshop updated is the key.
For Windows users, installing the HEIF and HEVC extensions is a must. Without them, Photoshop cannot open HEIC photos. For Mac users, things are usually smoother because HEIC is already built into macOS, but you still need an updated version of Photoshop. Once your file opens, you can edit it the same way you would edit any other photo—crop, resize, retouch, add effects, or adjust colors.
Still, if you ever face errors or your Photoshop version is too old, you don’t need to worry. The easiest and most reliable option is to use our free HEIC to JPG converter tool. With just a few clicks, your HEIC file becomes a JPG, ready to open in any Photoshop version without compatibility problems.
In short, whether you choose to update Photoshop or use our converter, you will always have a way to work with your HEIC photos. This means you can focus on editing and creativity, instead of struggling with file formats.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What is a HEIC file?
A HEIC file is a type of photo format mainly used by Apple devices like iPhones and iPads. It stores high-quality images in smaller sizes compared to JPG. While it saves storage, many apps, including older Photoshop versions, don’t open it directly. That’s why people often need to convert HEIC into JPG for easy use.
Q2: Can Photoshop open HEIC files directly?
Yes, but only newer versions of Photoshop support HEIC. If you are using Photoshop CC 2018 (19.1) or later, it should open HEIC files on both Windows and Mac. Older versions do not support this format, so you’ll need to update Photoshop or convert your file into JPG.
Q3: Why is my Photoshop not opening HEIC files?
The main reason is missing support. On Windows, you need HEIF and HEVC extensions from Microsoft Store. On Mac, you need an updated macOS. If Photoshop is still giving errors, the file might be corrupted, or your version is outdated. In such cases, convert HEIC to JPG using our free tool.
Q4: How can I edit HEIC files in Photoshop?
Once the HEIC file is opened in Photoshop, you can edit it like any normal image. You can crop, resize, adjust brightness, fix colors, or apply filters. If you face issues while opening, convert the HEIC file to JPG first. That makes editing smooth and error-free.
Q5: Do I need to install extra software to open HEIC files?
On Windows, yes—you need to install HEIF and HEVC extensions. Without them, Photoshop won’t recognize the format. On Mac, most modern systems already have HEIC support built-in. If your setup doesn’t work, our online HEIC to JPG converter is the fastest solution.
Q6: Is HEIC better than JPG?
HEIC offers smaller file sizes and better quality compared to JPG, which is why Apple uses it. However, JPG is more popular and supported everywhere. If you need compatibility and sharing, convert HEIC to JPG. If you want high quality and storage savings, HEIC is better.
Q7: Can I convert HEIC files without losing quality?
Yes, our free HEIC to JPG converter tool is designed to keep the quality high while reducing compatibility problems. You may see very tiny changes, but for normal use, the converted JPG looks almost the same as the original HEIC.
Q8: Is it safe to use an online HEIC to JPG converter?
Yes, our converter is 100% safe. The files you upload are not stored or shared. They are only converted and then deleted automatically. This makes it private, secure, and reliable for personal or professional photos.
Q9: Can I use your converter tool on mobile?
Yes! Our HEIC to JPG converter works on mobile, tablet, and desktop. Whether you are on iPhone, Android, Windows, or Mac, you can easily upload your HEIC file and download the JPG version instantly. No app download is required.
Q10: What should I do if Photoshop keeps showing errors with HEIC files?
First, check if your Photoshop and operating system are updated. Then make sure the required extensions are installed. If the problem continues, the fastest solution is to use our free online converter to turn HEIC into JPG. This method always works, even if your software is old.
