For macOS developers creating apps that use or process images, the question of which is better to use between HEIC and JPG is always part of the discussion. Both of these formats have their uses and value depending on the situation, but if you are in the process of choosing the right image format for your macOS project, you need to carefully consider the impact on performance, compatibility, and user experience.
If you’re also looking for ways to make images more accessible across different platforms, it’s also good to consider using an HEIC to JPG converter—especially if your target audience uses non-Apple devices.
What We Will Discuss in This Article
- This article explains the differences between HEIC and JPG for macOS developers.
- We will discuss image quality, file size, compatibility, performance, legal considerations, and best use cases.
- The goal is to help developers choose the right image format based on technical and practical needs.
Understanding the Two Formats: HEIC and JPG
HEIC or High Efficiency Image Container is a modern image format used by Apple on newer macOS and iOS devices. It is part of HEIF, or High Efficiency Image Format. Since macOS High Sierra and iOS 11, it has been the default format for Apple cameras. It uses HEVC or H.265 compression, which is more advanced than JPEG. Additionally, HEIC can store multiple image variations (such as burst shots or live photos) in a single file and supports transparency, 16-bit color, and metadata.
Meanwhile, JPG has long been used across almost all types of devices and platforms. It is a standard format supported by Windows, Android, web browsers, and even older Apple devices. Because of this, it remains popular with users and developers who want compatibility across all platforms. JPG is easy to preview, edit, and share even with basic software, making it frequently used in web development, content sharing, and email attachments.
Image Quality and Compression
One of the biggest differences between HEIC and JPG is the image quality related to file size. HEIC is known for its ability to maintain high image quality while keeping the file size small. This is due to its more modern compression algorithms.
For example, if you take a photo with a MacBook or iPhone camera, you will notice the HEIC file is about half the size of a JPG file but with almost no difference in visual quality. When you zoom in on the same photo, HEIC images appear clearer and more detailed.
On the other hand, JPG uses an older compression method, making it more prone to image artifacts like blurring or pixelation. This is not always an issue if the image is small or high precision is not required, but for apps with photo editing or media storage, image quality matters a lot.
Support and Compatibility on macOS and Other Platforms
For apps used exclusively within the Apple ecosystem, the choice is easy: macOS and iOS natively support HEIC. From Quick Look, the Preview app, the Photos app, to the Core Image framework, integration is seamless.
However, if your app is cross-platform or has users on older macOS versions or Windows-based systems, you might encounter issues opening HEIC files. Many third-party software still do not fully support HEIC. Here, JPG comes in as a safer choice because it is universal and has almost no compatibility issues.
As a macOS developer, you need to consider whether your end users are mostly Apple users or not. If yes, HEIC can be the default format. If not, you might want to include an option for JPG export or use a HEIC to JPG converter to ensure accessibility.
Performance Impact on macOS Development
File size and quality affect not only storage but also performance. Smaller file sizes mean faster loading times and lower memory consumption. In this regard, HEIC wins.
In apps that load many images, such as photo galleries, image annotation tools, or media editing apps, smaller file sizes greatly help. Not only does performance improve, but battery consumption is also reduced when the app is used on a MacBook.
However, because HEIC compression is more complex, decoding might be slower if the device or app is not optimized. This is where the developer’s role is to balance performance and compatibility.
Using HEIC and JPG in Xcode and Swift
Both HEIC and JPG are supported in Xcode. Using frameworks like AVFoundation and Core Image, you can load, edit, and save images in both formats.
For HEIC, you just need to make sure you use HEVC-compatible settings. Using AVAssetExportSession and CIImage, handling HEIC files in your macOS app is straightforward.
JPG is simpler to integrate, and many third-party libraries are based on this format. When your app needs to export images for social media or email attachments, JPG is more practical.
A good practice is to provide users with the option to choose the image format in the app settings. For example, you could add “Export as JPG” or “Save in HEIC” depending on user preference. This is done using NSBitmapImageRep in macOS apps.
Legal and Licensing Factors
HEIC is based on the HEVC codec, which involves patent licensing. For personal use or within the Apple ecosystem, this usually poses no problem. But if you are making a third-party app to be sold in a wider market, you might need to check the licensing requirements for HEVC. Some countries and organizations have specific regulations for using patent-encumbered codecs, so it is important to consult legal resources or licensing bodies like MPEG LA for proper compliance.
JPG, on the other hand, is almost an open format. There are no licensing fees to pay, and it is safe for commercial app use. Thus, for startup developers or open-source projects, JPG integration is simpler.
When to Use HEIC and JPG
Knowing the difference between HEIC and JPG is not enough—you also need to identify when and where each is more suitable. The usage context, type of end user, and platform integration are key factors every macOS developer should consider.
HEIC is more suitable if:
- The app is Apple-exclusive – If your app is designed only for macOS or iOS and not expected to be used outside the Apple ecosystem, using HEIC makes more sense. Since it is natively supported by all modern Apple devices, opening or editing HEIC images won’t be a problem for users.
- High image quality is required – HEIC can compress images with minimal quality loss. For apps needing high-resolution output, such as photo editing tools, media archiving, or creative design software, you benefit from more detailed and vibrant output.
- Storage efficiency and faster app performance matter – Due to its smaller file size compared to JPG, loading is faster, and memory usage is lower. This helps optimize battery life and app responsiveness, especially when many or large images need to be loaded.
JPG is better if:
- The app is multi-platform – If the app is used on Windows, Android, or web browsers in addition to Apple devices, JPG is a more reliable universal format. Its compatibility means less technical friction for users.
- Compatibility with many third-party apps is needed – Many external tools and APIs do not fully support HEIC yet. For projects requiring integration with various services like social media APIs, cloud storage, or CMS platforms, JPG is safer.
- Quick and broad image sharing is a priority – JPG makes it easier if the app focuses on sharing images via email, chat apps, websites, or social media. It produces fewer errors or compatibility issues, especially on older systems.
Hybrid Approach: Best for Different Scenarios
You don’t always have to choose just one. Sometimes a hybrid approach is more effective. For example, developers can set up a system that automatically uses HEIC for storage and internal use if an Apple device is detected, but converts to JPG when exporting, sharing, or sending images to non-Apple devices or platforms.
This way, you get the best of both worlds—high quality and performance inside the app, but compatibility and accessibility outside it. Many Swift libraries and built-in APIs allow on-the-fly format conversion, so this won’t be a hurdle in development.
Smarter Choices for Your App
Choosing between HEIC and JPG is not just a technical question. It’s a decision grounded in your app’s actual use, expected users, and desired performance. While HEIC offers modern quality and efficiency, JPG remains a tried-and-tested standard.
JPG will be more beneficial if you need to prioritize user reach, compatibility, and flexibility. But if your goal is optimized performance within the Apple ecosystem, HEIC is the format you can rely on.
In the end, the strongest solution is being ready for both formats. As a macOS developer, it’s important that your app can adapt based on context and user preference. With the right tools and approach, you can ensure every image, whether HEIC or JPG, delivers the best possible experience for your users.