# RAW to HEIC Conversion Feature

How does the new conversion option in Apple Photos impact user experience?

- **Source:** [Product Hunt — The best new products, every day](https://brifing.si/source/a459d489-2e9f-45f3-a76f-4f40ae5ec434)
- **Published:** 2026-08-26
- **Topic:** [Product Management](https://brifing.si/c/product)
- **Original article:** <https://www.producthunt.com/products/rawtoheic>
- **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/5dc74312-cec4-4d3e-9a0a-b611d47569d0

## Advantages of RAW Format

RAW format provides photographers with raw image data, offering greater editing flexibility. It preserves all data captured by the sensor, delivering advantages in color depth and dynamic range. Professional photographers typically prefer RAW for post-production. However, file sizes are significantly larger compared to JPEG or HEIC formats.

## Benefits of HEIC Format

HEIC (High Efficiency Image Format) is Apple's developed image format offering up to 50% smaller file sizes than JPEG without compromising quality. This format particularly saves storage space on iOS devices. HEIC also includes additional features like alpha channel support and animation capabilities.

## New Feature in Apple Photos

Apple's latest update introduced RAW to HEIC conversion capability in the Photos app. This feature allows users to convert large RAW files into more manageable HEIC format. The conversion can be done directly within the application. Users can now change formats without needing external software.

## User Experience Improvements

The new conversion feature provides significant convenience, especially for users with limited storage. RAW files were challenging to backup and share via iCloud. HEIC format simplifies these processes. Additionally, the conversion is presented through a user-friendly interface.

## Implications for Professional Users

For professional photographers, this feature has potential to accelerate post-shoot workflows. Final products can be shared as HEIC while preserving original RAW files for archiving. This could be particularly time-saving for jobs requiring fast delivery. However, some professionals might still prefer RAW for editing purposes.

## Technical Details and Limitations

The conversion process uses Apple's proprietary image processing algorithms. Since HEIC isn't universally supported, compatibility issues may arise. Windows users especially might face difficulties opening HEIC files. Apple provides a HEIC viewer for Windows to address this problem.

## Storage Efficiency

While an average RAW file ranges from 25-50MB, the same image in HEIC format can shrink to 5-10MB. This represents significant storage savings, especially for users who take numerous photos. On a 64GB iPhone, this feature could allow storing hundreds of additional photos. Long-term usage might positively impact device lifespan.

## Future Updates and Developments

This feature appears to be part of Apple's steps to simplify mobile photography workflows. Future updates might include batch conversion and custom compression settings. This development has potential to reduce the technology access gap between professional and amateur photographers. User feedback could further refine the feature.

## Sources covering this story

- https://www.producthunt.com/products/rawtoheic — 

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_Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._