You plugged your iPhone into your PC, copied the DCIM folder, and... half the files are blank white icons. Welcome to the HEIC compatibility issue on Windows.
Method 1: Install the HEIF Image Extensions
Microsoft offers an official extension to support HEIC files, but it's not always installed by default (and sometimes they charge $0.99 for the video component).
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Search for "HEIF Image Extensions".
- Click Get (it should be free).
Once installed, Windows Photos app should be able to open HEIC files natively.
Method 2: Use Google Photos
If you use Google Photos to back up your iPhone, you can access the images via the web browser on your PC. Google automatically handles the format conversion for viewing.
Method 3: Convert for Compatibility
If you need to use the image in a specific program (like Photoshop CS6, or an old government website upload form), "viewing" it isn't enough. You need it to be a JPG.
In this case, simply drag your files into LocalImageConverter. We will convert them to standard JPEGs that are compatible with every piece of software made in the last 30 years.