HEVC (also called H.265) is a video format used by iPhones, drones, many cameras, and 4K downloads. Windows 11 can play it, but the built-in Media Player and Photos apps need Microsoft’s HEVC Video Extensions to decode it. If an HEVC file won’t play, shows only audio, or asks for a codec, you can fix it by installing that extension or by using a player that includes its own HEVC support.
Step 1: Check Whether the HEVC Extension Is Already Installed
- Open Settings > Apps > Installed apps.
- Type HEVC in the search box.
- If you see HEVC Video Extensions or HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer, it’s installed. Skip to Step 3.
Many new PCs come with the manufacturer version already installed.
Step 2: Install HEVC Video Extensions
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Search for HEVC Video Extensions.
- Select the extension published by Microsoft Corporation and install it. Microsoft charges a small fee for it in most regions.
- Restart Media Player or Photos after installing.
Only install codecs from the Microsoft Store. Avoid “free HEVC codec” downloads from other websites, which often bundle unwanted software.
Step 3: Play the File
Right-click the video, choose Open with, and pick Media Player. The video should now play with picture and sound.
Alternative: Use a Player with Built-In HEVC Support
Some media players include their own HEVC decoding, so they don’t need Microsoft’s extension. The free VLC media player is a popular example. Download it only from its official site.
Methods Compared
| Method | Cost | Works in |
|---|---|---|
| HEVC Video Extensions | Small fee (free if preinstalled by the PC maker) | Media Player, Photos, Clipchamp, and other Windows apps |
| Player with built-in support | Often free | That player only |
| Convert to H.264 | Free tools available | Any device, but conversion takes time and can reduce quality |
Troubleshooting
- Video stutters or freezes. 4K HEVC needs hardware decoding. Update your graphics driver; older graphics chips may not support smooth HEVC playback.
- Black screen with sound. The codec is missing or the app needs a restart after installing it.
- “Can’t play” errors on one file only. Try another HEVC file. If others work, the file may be damaged or use an unusual format, such as 10-bit HDR that your hardware can’t decode.
Related iPhone Formats
iPhones also save photos as HEIC. See how to open HEIC files in Windows and how to change HEIC to JPG on Windows. For video specifically, see how to play HEIC video on Windows 10.
Related: Open MOV files on Windows.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HEVC the same as HEIC?
They’re related. HEVC is the video compression standard; HEIC is an image format that uses the same technology for photos.
Can I stop my iPhone from recording in HEVC?
Yes. On the iPhone, go to Settings > Camera > Formats and choose Most Compatible. Videos will use H.264 instead, but take more space.
Summary
To play HEVC files on Windows 11, check whether HEVC Video Extensions is installed, add it from the Microsoft Store if not, and open the video in Media Player. Or use a trusted player with built-in HEVC support. Update graphics drivers if playback is choppy.
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.