How to Change HEIC to JPG on Mac: A Comprehensive Guide

The High Efficiency Image Format (HEIC) is a modern image format introduced by Apple that offers superior compression and quality compared to traditional formats like JPEG. However, not all devices and applications support HEIC, which can make it necessary to convert these images to more universally accepted formats like JPG. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore various methods to help you change HEIC to JPG on Mac, ensuring that you can easily share and use your images across different platforms.

Understanding HEIC and JPG Formats

HEIC Format: HEIC is a highly efficient image format that uses advanced compression techniques to reduce file size without compromising quality. It was introduced by Apple in 2017 as part of the High Efficiency Image File Format (HEIF) standard. HEIC files are smaller and can store more detailed information than traditional JPEG files, making them ideal for high-resolution images and videos.

JPG Format: JPEG (Joint Photographic Experts Group) is a widely used image format that has been around since the 1990s. It is supported by virtually all devices and applications, making it a universal choice for sharing and storing images. While JPEG files are larger and may lose some quality during compression, they offer a good balance between file size and image quality.

Why Convert HEIC to JPG?

Despite its advantages, the HEIC format is not universally supported. Many older devices, web browsers, and software applications do not recognize HEIC files, which can lead to compatibility issues. Converting HEIC to JPG ensures that your images can be viewed and shared across a wide range of platforms and devices. Here are some common reasons to convert HEIC to JPG:

• Compatibility: Ensure your images can be viewed on any device or application.
• File Size: While HEIC files are smaller, some users prefer the larger but more compatible JPG format.
• Backup: Create backup copies of your images in a universally accepted format.
• Editing: Many image editing tools and software support JPG but not HEIC.

Method 1: Using Preview on Mac

MacOS comes with a built-in image viewer and editor called Preview, which can be used to convert HEIC to JPG. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Open the HEIC file using Preview. You can do this by double-clicking the file or right-clicking and selecting “Open With” > “Preview”.
2. Once the image is open in Preview, click on “File” in the top menu bar and select “Export”.
3. In the Export window, choose “JPEG” from the “Format” dropdown menu.
4. Adjust the quality setting if needed. Higher quality settings result in larger file sizes but better image quality.
5. Click “Save” and choose a location to save the converted JPG file.

Method 2: Using Terminal on Mac

For users who are comfortable with the command line, the Terminal on Mac can be used to batch convert HEIC files to JPG. Here’s how:

1. Open Terminal. You can find it in Applications > Utilities > Terminal.
2. Navigate to the directory containing your HEIC files using the cd command. For example, if your files are in a folder named “Images” on your desktop, you would type:
   cd ~/Desktop/Images
3. Use the sips command to convert the files. For example, to convert a file named “image.heic” to “image.jpg”, you would type:
   sips -s format jpeg image.heic --out image.jpg
4. To batch convert all HEIC files in the directory, you can use a loop. Here’s an example script:
   for file in *.heic; do sips -s format jpeg "$file" --out "${file%.heic}.jpg"; done

Method 3: Using Third-Party Software

There are several third-party applications that can help you convert HEIC to JPG on Mac. These tools often offer additional features and a more user-friendly interface. Here are a few popular options:

• HEIC to JPG Converter: This is a dedicated tool designed specifically for converting HEIC files to JPG. It is easy to use and supports batch conversion. You can download HEIC to JPG Converter from the official website.
• Adobe Photoshop: If you already have Adobe Photoshop installed, you can use it to convert HEIC to JPG. Simply open the HEIC file, go to “File” > “Save As”, and choose “JPEG” from the format options.
• Pixelmator Pro: Pixelmator Pro is a powerful image editing software that supports HEIC and offers a wide range of editing tools. You can open HEIC files, edit them, and save them as JPG.

Method 4: Using Online Converters

For those who prefer not to install additional software, online converters can be a convenient option. These tools allow you to upload your HEIC files and convert them to JPG directly in your web browser. Here’s how to use an online converter:

1. Go to a reputable online converter website, such as HEIC to JPG Converter.
2. Click on the “Select Files” button and choose the HEIC files you want to convert.
3. Wait for the files to upload and the conversion process to complete.
4. Once the conversion is done, download the converted JPG files to your computer.

Tips for Efficient Conversion

While converting HEIC to JPG is straightforward, here are some tips to ensure the process is as efficient and effective as possible:

• Batch Conversion: If you have multiple HEIC files to convert, use batch conversion tools or scripts to save time.
• File Quality: Adjust the quality settings during conversion to balance file size and image quality. Higher quality settings result in larger files but better image quality.
• Backup: Always keep a backup of your original HEIC files in case you need to reconvert them or edit them in the future.
• Compatibility Check: Test the converted JPG files on different devices and applications to ensure they are fully compatible.

Common Issues and Solutions

While converting HEIC to JPG is generally a smooth process, you may encounter some issues. Here are a few common problems and their solutions:

• Slow Conversion: If the conversion process is slow, try using a more powerful computer or an online converter with faster servers.
• File Size: If the converted JPG files are too large, reduce the quality setting during conversion. Conversely, if the files are too small and the image quality is poor, increase the quality setting.
• Loss of Metadata: Some conversion methods may result in the loss of metadata. If this is important, use a tool that preserves metadata, such as Adobe Photoshop.
• Color Issues: If the colors in the converted JPG files look different, ensure that your color profile settings are correct. You can adjust these settings in your image editing software.

Conclusion

Converting HEIC to JPG on Mac is a straightforward process that can be accomplished using various methods, from built-in tools like Preview to third-party software and online converters. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can ensure that your images are compatible with a wide range of devices and applications. Whether you are a professional photographer, a casual user, or someone who needs to share images across different platforms, this guide provides the tools and knowledge you need to convert HEIC to JPG efficiently and effectively.