Some iPhones save photos in a format called HEIC. This format works well on Apple devices, but it may not open correctly on some computers, websites, or office systems.
To make your photos easier to open and share, you can change your iPhone camera settings so new photos are saved as JPG instead.
Why should I make this change?
Changing this setting can help make sure your photos are easier to open, view, and share.
This is especially helpful when you need to send photos to a doctor’s office, business, school, insurance company, or another organization that may use Windows computers or systems that do not support HEIC files.
After you make this change, new photos taken with your iPhone will be saved in a more common format that works on more devices.
Important note before you start
This change only affects new photos you take after updating the setting.
Photos already saved on your phone in HEIC format will not automatically change to JPG.
How to change your iPhone camera to JPG
- Open the Settings app on your iPhone.
- Scroll down and tap Camera.
- Tap Formats.
- Select Most Compatible.
That’s it. Your iPhone will now save new photos in JPG format.
What if I do not see the Formats option?
Some older iPhones may not show this option. If you do not see Formats, your phone may already be using a compatible photo format, or your iPhone model may not support this setting.
Will this affect picture quality?
Your photos should still look normal for everyday use. The main difference is that JPG files are easier for many people and offices to open.
Will this take up more space on my phone?
JPG photos may use a little more storage space than HEIC photos. However, the benefit is that they are easier to share and open on more devices.
Sharing photos isn't working?
If you are sending photos to an office or organization and they cannot open them, try making this change before taking and sending the photos again.