HEIC, short for High-Efficiency Image File Format, is a container format for storing individual digital images and image sequences, mainly used on photos taken on iOS devices. If you took a photo on your iPhone and forwarded it via email, the photo you sent will most likely be shipped in HEIC format. If the recipient opens it on a Windows computer, there is a high chance that they won’t be able to open it because HEIC is not supported natively on Windows devices.

Instead, if it’s opened in the Microsoft Photos app, you will be prompted to download and install an HEVC Video Extension.

Well, it will cost you $0.99. If it’s easier and happens often, you might be ok paying for it.

But there is also a free version, also provided by Microsoft that you can find and install from the Microsoft Store app.

Once installed, double-click the HEIC picture again and now it opens in the Photos app without any issue.

And once opened, you can do whatever you want with the picture, print, convert, etc.