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Convert HEIC Files to PDF: A Comprehensive Guide (2024)

May 30, 2023 2.3K views

How to convert HEIC to PDF is a question faced by many people. Birthed by Apple in iOS 11, this High-Efficiency Image Format boasts impressive quality and compact size, standing tall against the ubiquitous JPEG. However, the crossing from this island to the universally recognized land of PDF can be tricky, especially when treading non-Apple terrains. The question hovers in mind about how to convert HEIC to PDF using tool and online.

Fear not, this comprehensive guide shines a beacon on the path of converting HEIC to PDF on diverse devices and platforms. Journey with us through the realm of HEIC to PDF converter and user-friendly procedures for a seamless transformation of your treasured images using WPS Office.

Part 1: Why Should We Convert HEIC to PDF Files?

1. What Is HEIC Format?

HEIC, a file format introduced by Apple in 2017, quickly became the default image format for iPhones and iPads due to its impressive quality and size efficiency. Allowing users to store high-quality images in a smaller size compared to traditional JPEG format presented a significant advancement in image storage.

Despite this, the HEIC format's compatibility has remained primarily limited to Apple devices, presenting challenges when sharing or sending these files.

2. Limitations of HEIC

While the HEIC format offers considerable advantages in quality and space usage, its limited compatibility is a significant drawback. This limitation becomes apparent when attempting to share or send these files, as recipients often require additional apps or extensions to open and view the content.

The incompatibility also extends to web usage, as many browsers and systems do not support HEIC without additional software.

3. Why Should I Convert HEIC to A PDF File?

When comparing the HEIC and PDF formats, PDF files offer increased compatibility and even smaller file sizes. As a result, converting HEIC files to PDFs not only improves the ease of sharing but also reduces the storage space required.

This conversion is particularly beneficial for those wishing to share their images broadly or for individuals who want to print their images, as PDFs offer excellent print quality.

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Part 2: 4 Ways to Convert HEIC to PDF Files Free

1. Convert HEIC File to PDF on Windows

Adobe Photoshop CC and Adobe Reader are commonly used for converting HEIC files to PDF on Windows due to their flexibility, control, high-quality output, user-friendliness, availability, and support.

Step 1: Convert HEIC to JPG using Adobe Photoshop CC

  • Launch Adobe Photoshop CC on your computer

  • Click on the "File" menu and select "Open." Navigate to the HEIC file you wish to convert and open it.

  • Once the image is open, click on "File" again and then choose "Save as."

heic to pdf
  • In the dialog box, select JPG as the format and choose where you want to save it. Then click "Save."

heic to pdf photoshop

Step 2: Convert JPG to PDF using Adobe Reader

  • Open Adobe Reader on your computer.

  • Click on the "File" menu, then "Open," and navigate to the JPG image you just saved.

  • Once the image is open, click on "Enhance Scans" in the right panel.

  • Then select "Select a file" and click "Start."

  • After the file is processed, click "Save," choose the location where you want to save your PDF file and click "Save" again.

2. Convert HEIC File to PDF on Mac

PDFelement is a preferred choice for converting HEIC files to PDF on Mac due to its universal compatibility, ability to preserve image quality, user-friendly interface, and support for multiple formats.

Step 1: Launch PDFelement and Open the Create Tool

First and foremost, make sure that PDFelement is installed on your Mac. If not, you can easily download and install it from the official website.

heic to pdf mac

After successful installation, launch the software. Navigate to "File" on the menu bar, click on it, and a drop-down menu will appear. Click on "New" and then select "PDF from File…".

Step 2: Selection and Conversion of the HEIC File

In the Finder window that appears, browse to the location of your HEIC image file and select it. PDFelement supports the conversion of various image formats like PNG, JPG, TIFF, GIF, and, of course, HEIC to PDF.

Once you've selected the desired HEIC file, click on "Open." The software will then proceed to convert the HEIC file to PDF.

heic to pdf on mac

Step 3: Save Your New PDF

Once the HEIC file has been successfully converted to a PDF, it is essential to save the new file. Navigate to "File" in the menu bar, then click on "Save." You will then be prompted to select a location on your Mac where you want the new PDF file to be stored.

heic to pdf save

3. Convert HEIC to PDF Online

Tool 1: Zamzar

One of the online platforms making the conversion of HEIC to PDF a breeze is Zamzar. This widely utilized online tool provides a simple and quick conversion process. Here are the easy steps to accomplish this task:

Step 1: Upload Your HEIC File

Visit the Zamzar website and click on the "Add Files" button to upload your desired HEIC image from your computer. Alternatively, you can opt for the "Select Link" option to convert an image from a URL.

heic to pdf online

Step 2: Select PDF as Your Desired Output Format

Next, select "PDF" as your target format. This action prepares your image for conversion to PDF format.

Step 3: Begin the Conversion Process

After selecting the appropriate output format, hit the "Convert Now" button. This command initiates the conversion process. Once done, download your newly converted PDF file to your device.

Tool 2: Convert365

Convert365 not only lets you change your HEIC files into PDF but also offers a multitude of other file formats to choose from. It sports an intuitive interface, ensuring even the most novice users can easily navigate through the conversion process. Moreover, it prioritizes your privacy by refraining from storing your files on its servers. Here's how to use Convert365:

Step 1: Select Your HEIC File

First, go to the Convert365 website. Look for the "Choose File" option to browse and upload the HEIC file you want to convert.

heic to pdf for windows

Step 2: Specify the Output Format

Next, from the drop-down list of output formats, select "PDF." This step instructs the system on your desired output format.

Step 3: Start the Conversion Process

With your files selected and the desired format set, click on the "Convert" button. After the conversion process is completed, you can easily download your converted PDF file to your computer.

4. Converting HEIC to PDF on iPhone/Android

Type 1: Converting HEIC to PDF on iPhone

Apple users are at an advantage as iOS devices have a built-in feature for conversion. This eliminates the need for downloading any third-party apps. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Launch the Photos application on your iPhone.

Step 2: Select the HEIC photo you intend to convert.

Step 3: Click on the Share button.

Step 4: From the options that appear, select Print.

heic to pdf on Android

Step 5: In the new window, tap the Share button again.

how to convert heic to pdf

Step 6: Lastly, save the photo as a PDF by clicking on Save to Files.

heic to pdf iphone

With these six simple steps, you can effortlessly convert any HEIC image to PDF on your iPhone.

Type 2: Converting HEIC to PDF on Android

Android users have to resort to third-party applications to achieve this conversion, as HEIC is not fully supported by all Android versions. However, apps like the HEIC Converter make this process quite straightforward. Here's a guide on how to convert HEIC to PDF using HEIC Converter:

Step 1: Download the HEIC Converter app from Google Play Store onto your Android device.

Step 2: Open the app and import the HEIC files you want to convert (The app supports batch conversion).

Step 3: Click on the arrow icon to proceed to the next step.

heic to pdf Android

Step 4: Choose PDF as the output format.

Step 5: Finally, click on Convert HEIC to save the PDF files on your Android device.

heic to pdf converter Android

Part 3: How to Open HEIC Files on Windows and iPhone?

1. Implementing HEIC Support through Extensions on Windows

Windows 10 and 11 can natively support HEIC files by leveraging extensions such as 'HEIF Image Extension' and 'Video Extension.' These tools enable Windows to read and write HEIC formats even in the absence of hardware support.

The benefit of this approach is the ability to directly view HEIC files without the need for conversion or additional software.

Steps for Adding HEIC Support on Windows

Step 1: Navigate to the Microsoft Store via your browser.

Step 2: Look up 'HEIF Image Extension' or 'Video Extension' in the search box.

heic to pdf on Windows

Step 3: Click 'Get' and follow the prompts for a successful installation.

heic to pdf windows 10

Step 4: Try reopening your HEIC files.

The benefit of this approach is the ability to directly view HEIC files without the need for conversion or additional software.

2. Resetting Image Extensions on Windows

If installed extensions don't function as expected, resetting the image extensions might be the solution.Upon completion, try opening your HEIC files. This method could resolve potential issues with the installed extensions and restore their functionality.

Steps to Reset Image Extensions

Step 1: Visit 'PC Settings' and select 'Apps and Features.'

Step 2: Click on 'HEIF Image Extension' or 'Video Extension.'

how to convert heic to pdf on Windows 10

Step 3: Choose 'Advanced Options.'

free heic to pdf converter

Step 4: Select 'Reset' and confirm your choice.

Upon completion, try opening your HEIC files. This method could resolve potential issues with the installed extensions and restore their functionality.

3. Converting HEIC Files for Compatibility

Transforming HEIC files into a more universally accepted format, such as JPEG or PNG, could solve compatibility issues. This conversion can be performed using online tools or software such as a VLC media player.

This method is advantageous because it allows HEIC files to be used across different platforms and applications, such as image editing tools like Photoshop.

heic to pdf converter

Steps for Converting HEIC Files Using VLC Media Player

Step 1: Click 'Media' on the taskbar and select 'Convert/Save.'

Step 2: Choose the file to be converted and click 'Convert.'

Step 3: Select the desired output format, specify the save location, and click 'Start.'

heic to pdf VLC

This method is advantageous because it allows HEIC files to be used across different platforms and applications, such as image editing tools like Photoshop.

4. Using a Windows Plugin for HEIC Files

A Windows plugin could be utilized to open HEIC files. This method doesn't permit editing in programs like Lightroom or Photoshop, but it enables seamless incorporation of HEIC images into Word documents.

Steps to Use a Windows Plugin for HEIC Files

Step 1: Download a HEIC-compatible plugin, such as CopyTrans.

Step 2: After successful installation, open your HEIC files.

Step 3: The key benefit of this method is its ease of use and compatibility with word processing software.

5. Altering iPhone Settings for HEIC Files Prior to Importing

Adjusting your iPhone settings to automatically convert HEIC files to a more compatible format prior to transferring to your Windows device can simplify the process.

This method only applies to photos captured after enabling the automatic setting. The advantage of this method is its proactive approach, ensuring easy file transfers between your iPhone and PC.

Steps to Change iPhone Settings for HEIC Files

Step 1: Open 'Settings' on your iPhone.

Step 2: Navigate to 'Photos' and select 'Transfer to MAC or PC.'

Step 3: Choose 'Automatic' from the provided options.

‘heic to pdf macos

This method only applies to photos captured after enabling the automatic setting. The advantage of this method is its proactive approach, ensuring easy file transfers between your iPhone and PC.

Part 4: Difference Between HEIC and HEIF

Although HEIC and HEIF are often used interchangeably, it's crucial to understand their distinct roles in the world of digital imagery.

Format and Functionality

The key distinction is that HEIF is a file format designed specifically for image and image sequence storage. In contrast, HEIC is a container format, encompassing HEIF images, audio, and other components.

Applications

The multi-faceted capabilities of HEIC make it particularly suitable for applications like Live Photos on iOS devices, which combine static images with short video clips. HEIF, with its high efficiency and advanced features, shines as an optimal choice for still photography.

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FAQs

Q1: Will There Be Quality Loss When I Convert a HEIC to PDF?

No, there should not be any significant quality loss when you convert a HEIC file to a PDF, though certain features like live photos and bursts won't be functional.

Q2: How Do I Open HEIC Images in Adobe?

To open HEIC images in Adobe, navigate to Edit and Preferences, select Camera Raw, and then the File Handling tab. From there, in the JPEG and TIFF Handling box, choose either "Automatically open JPEGs and HEICs with settings" or "Automatically open all supported JPEGs and HEICs."

Q3: Can I Convert Multiple HEIC Files Into A Single PDF?

Yes, you can convert multiple HEIC files into a single PDF by uploading the HEIC files to convertio.co, selecting the PDF format as the output, and then downloading your combined PDF.

Summary

Converting HEIC files to PDF is essential for improving compatibility and reducing file sizes, enabling easier sharing and storage of images. If you follow the methods and tools outlined in this guide, you can seamlessly convert your HEIC files to PDF on various devices and platforms.

To further enhance your PDF experience, you can explore WPS Office, an all-in-one office software that includes Writer, Spreadsheets, Presentations, and a PDF Toolkit. Visit the WPS Office website to discover more advantages and functions of WPS Office, including its PDF capabilities.

15 years of office industry experience, tech lover and copywriter. Follow me for product reviews, comparisons, and recommendations for new apps and software.