How to Play HEIC Video on Windows 10
If you’ve got a HEIC video and want to play it on Windows 10, don’t panic! It’s easier than you might think. Follow these steps and you’ll be watching your videos in no time. All you need to do is install a couple of codecs and a media player that supports HEIC files.
How to Play HEIC Video on Windows 10
By following the steps below, you’ll be able to play HEIC videos on your Windows 10 computer without any hassle. Don’t worry; it’s straightforward and won’t take much of your time.
Step 1: Download a Media Player
First, download a media player that supports HEIC files, such as VLC Media Player.
VLC Media Player is a great choice because it supports a wide range of video formats, including HEIC. It’s free and widely trusted.
Step 2: Install the Media Player
Next, install the media player you just downloaded.
Follow the installation prompts. It’s quick and straightforward, just like installing any other software on your computer.
Step 3: Open the Media Player
Now, open the media player you have installed.
Opening VLC Media Player, for instance, is as simple as double-clicking its icon on your desktop or searching for it in the Start menu.
Step 4: Go to Preferences
In the media player, navigate to the preferences or settings section.
In VLC, you can usually find this under "Tools" and then "Preferences". This step ensures the player is set to handle HEIC files.
Step 5: Add the HEIC Codec
Add the HEIC codec if necessary, or ensure it’s enabled in your media player.
In VLC, this might be automatic. If it’s not, you can find codec packs online and install them to ensure compatibility.
Step 6: Open Your HEIC Video
Finally, open your HEIC video using the media player.
You can do this by right-clicking the file, selecting "Open with", and choosing your media player. Alternatively, you can open the file from within the media player.
After completing these steps, your HEIC video should play smoothly on Windows 10.
Tips for Playing HEIC Video on Windows 10
- Use VLC Media Player: This player supports many formats and is user-friendly.
- Keep Your Software Updated: Ensure both Windows 10 and your media player are up-to-date to avoid compatibility issues.
- Download Codec Packs: If your media player doesn’t support HEIC, download a codec pack like K-Lite Codec Pack.
- Check File Integrity: Make sure your HEIC file is not corrupted before attempting to play it.
- Explore Alternative Players: If VLC doesn’t work for you, try PotPlayer or KMPlayer, which also support HEIC files.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a HEIC file?
HEIC stands for High Efficiency Image Coding, a format primarily used by Apple to store images and videos efficiently without losing quality.
Why won’t my HEIC video play on Windows 10?
Windows 10 doesn’t natively support the HEIC format, so you’ll need a compatible media player and possibly additional codecs.
Is VLC Media Player safe to use?
Yes, VLC Media Player is safe and widely trusted. Just make sure to download it from the official website.
Can I convert HEIC videos to another format?
Yes, you can use conversion software like HandBrake to convert HEIC videos to a format supported by Windows 10, such as MP4.
Are there other media players besides VLC that support HEIC?
Yes, PotPlayer and KMPlayer are good alternatives that also support HEIC files.
Summary
- Download a media player.
- Install the media player.
- Open the media player.
- Go to preferences.
- Add the HEIC codec.
- Open your HEIC video.
Conclusion
Playing HEIC video on Windows 10 is simpler than it seems. By downloading a compatible media player like VLC Media Player and ensuring you have the right codecs, you can easily view your HEIC videos on your computer.
This guide walked you through each step, simplifying the process and making it accessible even if you’re not tech-savvy. Remember to keep your software updated and explore different media players if you encounter issues.
Now that you’ve got the hang of it, you can watch all your HEIC videos without any hitches. For further reading, look into articles on converting HEIC files or exploring advanced settings in media players for the best viewing experience. Happy watching!
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.