How to save pictures as JPG (not HEIF) on iOS Devices

This article concerns saving pictures in JPEG instead of HEIF format on your iOS device.  If you've already saved files as HEIF and transferred them to your Mac, click here to find out how to convert them to JPEG.

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iOS 12 saves photos you take in a more compressed HEIF format, and videos in a compressed HEVC format.  

The benefits of the HEVC format in particular are:

• allows recording 4K video at 60fps (if you iOS device is capable)
• allows recording 1080p video at 240fps (if you iOS device is capable)

The main disadvantage of the HEIF and HEVC formats is that they are not compatible with all OS platforms or third party programs.

If HEIF and HEVC file formats and their benefits are interfering with your productivity, change your iOS photo and video file format to the standard JPG and MOV formats.  On your iOS device:

1. Go to Settings
2. Click on Camera
3. Click on Formats
4. Choose Most Compatible