3 min read

How to Send a HEIC File via Email (So They Can Actually Open It)

You just snapped a great photo on your iPhone and want to email it to someone. You hit send, feeling accomplished. Then, a few minutes later, you get this message:

"Hey, I can't open this file... what is a HEIC?"

Ah, the classic HEIC problem. If you’ve ever sent a photo from an iPhone to someone who isn’t in Apple’s ecosystem, you’ve probably run into this. HEIC (High-Efficiency Image Container) is great for saving space, but it’s not exactly universal. So, how do you send a HEIC file via email without causing confusion or frustration? Easy. Let’s break it down.

1. Convert the HEIC to JPG Before Sending

Most people can open JPGs without an issue. HEIC? Not so much. The easiest way to avoid the "I can't open this" text is to convert your HEIC file before you send it.

One of the simplest ways to do this is by using HEICtoJPG.site. It’s free, fast, and doesn’t require any software downloads. Just upload your HEIC file, download the JPG version, and attach it to your email. Boom—problem solved.

2. Change iPhone Settings to Save Photos as JPG

If you're tired of converting HEIC files every time, you can tell your iPhone to stop saving photos in HEIC format altogether.

Here’s how:

  1. Open Settings on your iPhone.
  2. Scroll down to Camera > Formats.
  3. Select Most Compatible instead of High Efficiency.

Now, your iPhone will save all future photos as JPGs instead of HEIC. Easy, right?

How to Send a HEIC File via Email

3. Use Mail Apps That Auto-Convert

Some email apps (like Gmail on iPhone) will automatically convert HEIC files to JPGs when you attach them. But not all do, so if your recipient is still struggling to open the file, just assume the app didn’t do its job. In that case, fall back on option #1 and convert it manually.

4. Ask the Recipient to Convert It (If You’re Feeling Lazy)

Okay, let’s be real. Maybe you don’t want to deal with conversions. If that’s the case, just tell the person on the other end to use HEICtoJPG.site themselves. They can upload the file and get a JPG in seconds. But let’s be honest, sending a JPG from the start is just more considerate.

Final Thoughts

HEIC is great for keeping file sizes down, but unless the person you’re emailing is a fellow Apple user, it’s a bit of a hassle. Your best bet? Convert it before sending, or change your settings to avoid the issue entirely. That way, your emails won’t come with a side of technical confusion.

How to Send a HEIC File via Email

Now, go send that photo—properly this time.