Transferring Data from an iOS Device to Windows: Resolving File Compatibility Issues
If you've ever tried transferring data from an iOS device to a Windows system, you might have encountered issues due to incompatible file types. Don't worry; this is a common challenge and can be easily rectified by adjusting a simple setting on your iOS device.
Why does this issue occur?
The root of this compatibility issue lies in the format that the iOS device uses to store photos and videos. Newer versions of iOS devices offer the High Efficiency Image Format (HEIF) and High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) formats, which provide better compression than traditional formats. However, these formats may not be immediately recognized by all Windows applications.
How can you fix it?
To ensure maximum compatibility, especially when transferring to a Windows device, it's advised to switch your iOS device's settings to save photos and videos in a more universally recognized format.
Steps to Adjust Your iOS Device's Camera Settings for Compatibility:
Open 'Settings' on your iOS device: Locate and tap on the gear-shaped Settings icon on your home screen.
Access the Camera settings: Scroll down through the list of options until you find "Camera". Tap on it to open its settings.
Switch to the 'Formats' section: Within the Camera settings, you'll find an option labelled "Formats". Tap on it to view the available file format options.
Choose 'Most Compatible': Under the "Camera Capture" header, you'll see two options. One of them is "Most Compatible". Select this option. This ensures that your iOS device will save photos and videos in JPEG and H.264 formats, which are more widely recognised by various systems, including Windows.
After making this adjustment, any new photos or videos you take should be readily accessible and compatible when transferred to a Windows device. This won't change photos or videos that you've captured.
Last updated: October 2023
