How to Convert HEIC to JPG on Mac

Introduction to HEIC and JPG file formats

HEIC (High-Efficiency Image Format) is a relatively new image file format developed by the MPEG group. It is designed to offer better compression and image quality than the older JPEG format, which has been the standard for many years. HEIC files are currently used on Apple devices running iOS 11 and later.

On the other hand, JPG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) is an older image file format that has been in use since the 1990s. It is a widely used file format that is compatible with almost all devices and software applications.

While both HEIC and JPG are image file formats, they differ in terms of compression, file size, and compatibility. HEIC files tend to be smaller in size than JPG files and offer better image quality, but they are not yet compatible with all devices and software applications.

Converting HEIC files to JPG format on a Mac can be useful if you need to share images with others who may not have devices that support HEIC, or if you want to save storage space on your Mac.

Why convert HEIC to JPG on Mac?

Although HEIC offers better compression and image quality, there are several reasons why you might want to convert HEIC files to JPG format on your Mac:

1. Compatibility: While newer Apple devices support HEIC files, older devices and many third-party software applications do not. Converting HEIC files to JPG ensures that they can be opened and viewed on any device or software application.

2. Storage space: HEIC files take up less storage space than JPG files, but if you have a lot of images, the difference in file size can still add up. Converting HEIC files to JPG format can help you save storage space on your Mac.

3. Sharing: If you want to share images with others, it’s often easier to send JPG files as they are widely supported. Converting HEIC files to JPG format ensures that the recipients can easily view and access the images.

Using Preview to convert HEIC to JPG

Preview is a default image viewer and editor on Mac that can also be used to convert HEIC files to JPG format. Here’s how to do it:

1. Open the HEIC file in Preview by double-clicking on it.
2. Click on “File” in the top menu and select “Export”.
3. In the “Format” dropdown menu, select “JPEG”.
4. Choose a name and location for the JPG file, and click “Save”.

Preview will automatically convert the HEIC file to JPG format and save it to the specified location. You can also use Preview to batch convert multiple HEIC files to JPG format by selecting all the files in Finder, right-clicking, and selecting “Open With Preview”. Then, follow the same steps as above to export them to JPG format.

Using Automator to batch convert HEIC to JPG

Automator is a built-in app on Mac that allows you to automate tasks by creating workflows. You can use Automator to batch convert multiple HEIC files to JPG format. Here’s how:

1. Open Automator from the Applications folder.
2. Select “New Document” and choose “Workflow”.
3. In the “Library” panel on the left, select “Photos”.
4. Drag the “Change Type of Images” action to the workflow area on the right.
5. In the “Change Type of Images” action, select “JPEG” in the “To Type” dropdown menu.
6. Drag the “Export Images” action to the workflow area.
7. Choose a name and location for the exported JPG files.
8. Click on “File” in the top menu and select “Save”.

To use the workflow, simply drag and drop the HEIC files you want to convert onto the workflow icon. The workflow will automatically convert the files to JPG format and save them to the specified location.

Other software options for HEIC to JPG conversion on Mac

In addition to using Preview and Automator, there are other third-party software options available for converting HEIC files to JPG format on a Mac. Some of the popular options include:

1. Adobe Photoshop: If you have Adobe Photoshop installed on your Mac, you can use it to convert HEIC files to JPG format. Simply open the HEIC file in Photoshop and use the “Save As” function to save it in JPG format.

2. Image Converter: Image Converter is a free app available on the Mac App Store that allows you to convert HEIC files to JPG format. It supports batch conversion and also allows you to resize images.

3. iMazing HEIC Converter: iMazing HEIC Converter is a free app that can convert HEIC files to JPG format. It also allows you to retain the original metadata of the image.

4. HEIC Converter: HEIC Converter is a free app available on the Mac App Store that allows you to convert HEIC files to JPG format. It also supports batch conversion and allows you to customize the image quality of the output files.

These are just a few of the many options available for converting HEIC files to JPG format on a Mac. Choose the option that works best for you based on your needs and preferences.