The Benefits of HEIF Images
If you have ever transferred images from your iPhone or camera to your desktop, you may have encountered a file format known as HEIF. HEIF, or High Efficient Image File Format, is a container format designed for storing digital images and sequences, including bursts. In addition to images, HEIF can also include video, audio, and timed text, making it a versatile option for multimedia storage.
Unlike JPEG files, HEIF files support transparency and up to 16-bit color, allowing for higher-quality images. They are also able to store high-contrast details and compress large amounts of video data, making them a more efficient option for multimedia storage.
The Adoption of HEIF
Developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) in 2015, HEIF was officially adopted by Apple as .heic in 2017. Since then, Android and major camera manufacturers like Canon and Fujifilm have also embraced the format. HEIF encompasses various file extensions, including .heif, .heic, and .heifs, all based on the High Efficiency Video Compression (HEVC) standard.
Comparing HEIF and JPEG
Both HEIF and JPEG are lossy compression formats, but HEIF files offer higher quality and crisper images compared to JPEGs. HEIF files are able to retain more detail in smaller file sizes, making them a more efficient option for image storage. However, JPEG still remains the most widely used format, requiring HEIF files to be converted for compatibility with unsupported platforms and browsers.
Converting HEIF to JPEG
Despite the advantages of HEIF, converting files to JPEG is a simple process. Many operating systems and browsers do not support HEIF files, making conversion necessary for viewing on mainstream platforms like social media. Fortunately, most devices automatically convert HEIF files to JPEG when transferring to unsupported platforms, ensuring seamless compatibility for sharing and viewing images.
