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Can IrfanView Open HEIC Files?

Yes. IrfanView currently lists HEIC as a supported image format, but its official FAQ says HEIC loading requires the appropriate HEIC/HEVC codec or Windows extensions. The exact setup depends on your Windows version.

Yes, but IrfanView needs HEIC/HEVC support installed

IrfanView's current format list includes HEIC, and its FAQ explains how to load HEIC files. IrfanView needs a compatible HEIC/HEVC codec or the Microsoft HEIF/HEVC extensions available for the relevant Windows version.

Use the current IrfanView releaseInstall the HEIC/HEVC support path for your Windows versionReopen the HEIC file in IrfanView

Current IrfanView HEIC support

IrfanView's official site currently lists version 4.75 and includes HEIC/AVIF in its supported image-format table.

The format listing alone does not mean every Windows installation can decode HEIC immediately. IrfanView marks HEIC as PlugIn-supported, and its FAQ separately states that HEIC loading requires an installed HEVC extension or codec path.

IrfanView HEIC setup on Windows 10 and Windows 11

For Windows 10/11, IrfanView's official FAQ points to Microsoft Store extensions.

  • Install HEIF Image Extensions from Microsoft Store.
  • For IrfanView's documented Windows 10/11 Store path, install HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer as well.
  • Close and reopen IrfanView, then load the HEIC image again.

IrfanView also documents HEIC codec options for older Windows

IrfanView's FAQ lists alternative HEIC codec routes for Windows 7 and Windows 8 in addition to the Microsoft Store path for newer Windows versions.

Those alternatives are IrfanView-specific dependency guidance and do not imply that every HEIC app supports the same Windows versions.

IrfanView HEIC FAQ

Current IrfanView requirements for loading HEIC images on Windows.