How to Change HEIC to JPG in Google Drive
Complete guide to converting HEIC files to JPG using Google Drive and Google Photos
Google Drive doesn't directly convert HEIC to JPG, but Google Photos automatically converts HEIC files to JPG when you download them. Alternatively, you can use a free online converter like HEIC.fast to convert files before uploading to Google Drive, or download from Google Photos which handles the conversion automatically.
Choose Your Method:
Why Google Drive Doesn't Convert HEIC
Google Drive is a file storage service, not an image converter. When you upload HEIC files to Google Drive, they remain in HEIC format. However, Google has built HEIC conversion into Google Photos, which is their photo management service.
Important Distinction:
- • Google Drive - Stores files as-is (HEIC stays HEIC)
- • Google Photos - Automatically converts HEIC to JPG when downloading
Method 1: Use Google Photos (Easiest)
Upload HEIC to Google Photos
- Go to photos.google.com in your browser
- Click the Upload button in the top right
- Select Computer and choose your HEIC files
- Wait for the upload to complete
Download as JPG
- Open the uploaded HEIC photo in Google Photos
- Click the three dots menu in the top right
- Select Download
- The file will automatically download as JPG format ✓
✓ Why This Works: Google Photos automatically converts HEIC to JPG when you download images. The original HEIC is stored in the cloud, but downloads are always in JPG format for maximum compatibility.
Method 2: Convert Before Upload (Most Reliable)
Use HEIC.fast Converter
The most reliable method is to convert HEIC to JPG before uploading to Google Drive. This ensures your files are in the correct format and can be viewed by anyone.
Step-by-Step:
- 1. Visit HEIC.fast
- 2. Drag and drop your HEIC files (or click to browse)
- 3. Wait 2-3 seconds for automatic conversion
- 4. Download the converted JPG files
- 5. Upload the JPG files to Google Drive
Why Use Online Converter?
- ✓Universal compatibility - JPG files open everywhere
- ✓No Google account needed - Works without login
- ✓Batch conversion - Convert multiple files at once
- ✓Fast and free - No software installation required
Method 3: Google Drive Workarounds
Use Google Drive Mobile App
The Google Drive mobile app can preview HEIC files, though it won't convert them.
- • Upload HEIC files to Google Drive from your phone
- • Open files in the Google Drive app to view
- • Share via Google Photos for automatic JPG conversion
Move to Google Photos First
Upload to Google Photos, then move to Google Drive as JPG.
- • Upload HEIC files to Google Photos
- • Download from Google Photos (auto-converts to JPG)
- • Upload the downloaded JPG files to Google Drive
Use Google Drive Preview
Google Drive can preview HEIC files in the browser, but cannot convert them.
- • Upload HEIC to Google Drive
- • Double-click to preview in browser
- • Right-click and "Save image as" (saves as HEIC, not JPG)
⚠️ Limitation: This only allows viewing. Downloaded files remain in HEIC format.
Method Comparison
| Method | Ease of Use | Speed | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| HEIC.fast Converter | Very Easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Instant (2-3s) | Batch conversion |
| Google Photos | Easy ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | Medium (upload time) | Google ecosystem users |
| Google Drive Workarounds | Moderate ⭐⭐⭐ | Slow (multi-step) | Preview only |
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Google Drive convert HEIC to JPG automatically?
No, Google Drive does not have built-in HEIC to JPG conversion. However, Google Photos (a separate service) does automatically convert HEIC to JPG when you download images. For Google Drive specifically, you need to convert files before uploading or use Google Photos as an intermediary.
Does Google Photos store my photos in JPG or HEIC?
Google Photos stores your photos in their original format (HEIC if uploaded from iPhone). However, when you download or share photos, Google Photos automatically converts them to JPG format for maximum compatibility.
Can I view HEIC files in Google Drive without converting?
Yes, Google Drive's web interface can preview HEIC files when you double-click them. However, if you download the file, it remains in HEIC format. For sharing with others who may not support HEIC, it's best to convert to JPG first.
Will converting HEIC to JPG reduce quality?
Modern converters maintain 95%+ quality during conversion. The difference is imperceptible to the human eye for most photos. The benefit of universal compatibility usually outweighs any minimal quality loss.
Can I convert multiple HEIC files at once?
Yes! Online converters like HEIC.fast support batch conversion, allowing you to upload and convert multiple HEIC files simultaneously. This is much faster than converting files one at a time.
Ready to Convert Your HEIC Files?
Use our free online converter to instantly transform HEIC files to JPG format, then upload to Google Drive.