Free HEVC extension for Windows 10 and Windows 11

How to get HEVC, HEIF extension, heic or .heif for free?

In modern smartphones we find a “High Efficiency Video” option to store our high-quality videos in format HEVC either HEIF. This format uses the codec H.265 or HEVC and increases the compression of the recording to save storage space.

However, being a proprietary codec, It does not come installed on Windows 11 or Windows 10. Consequently, we will not be able to open these videos with the native applications of the operating system, inviting us to download the add-on from the Microsoft Store for a minimum payment.

Fortunately Microsoft has an option for manufacturers to pre-install this codec on their Windows installations free. It's in the Microsoft Store, but it's hidden for common users.

How to install HEVC codec for Windows for free

1. In the address bar of our favorite browser, we copy and paste the following URL and enter it by pressing the intro: ms-windows-store://pdp/?ProductId=9n4wgh0z6vhq
   or enter the following URL: https://apps.microsoft.com/store/detail/extensiones-de-imagen-heif/9PMMSR1CGPWG
2. The browser will show us a caveat that this site is trying to open the Microsoft Store. If we get this warning, we must accept it so that it can to open the store with the extension.
3. If we have done it correctly, we will be will open the Microsoft Store with the HEVC codec. This should be called HEVC video extensions from the device manufacturer. we just have to install it and we can play videos that make use of this codec in our operating system.

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