HEVC File Extension

What is HEVC file?

Files with the .HEVC extension contain video data encoded using High-Efficiency Video Coding. This is a highly efficient video stream compression standard that is the successor of H.264. It is referred to as H.265, and its successor is H.266 VVC - Versatile Video Coding. The HEVC image resolution can be up to 8K UHD 300fps. Supporting these files requires high-performance hardware on which they are to be played.

HEVC File Format

The development of the HEVC codec stemmed from the need to ensure better video quality for the same data stream. HEVC files, sometimes recorded with the .H265 extension, are encoded in a high-efficiency manner, which translates into less disk space occupied compared to files with the same image quality and an older codec. The algorithm uses improvements over its predecessor:

• maximum block size,
• greater random access to images in the video stream,
• parallel decoding.

Based on the algorithms used in HEVC files, the format for images HEIC / HEIF was designed in 2017 by APPLE. The HEVC coding is also used in digital television in the DVB-T2 standard.

Playing HEVC on Computers and Other Devices

To be able to play files with the .HEVC extension, it is necessary to have the appropriate codec on the device as well as a player. This format was not natively supported by Windows 10. To make sure that a particular device supports HEVC files, one should check for the presence of the HEVC/H.265 codec in the system and install it if necessary and possible.

Programs which support HEVC file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support HEVC files. HEVC files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 03/06/2024

How to open file with HEVC extension?

Problems with accessing HEVC may be due to various reasons. Fortunately, most common problems with HEVC files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with HEVC files.

Step 1. Get the VLC media player

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports HEVC files installed on the system. The most obvious solution is to download and install VLC media player or one to the listed programs: DivX HEVC. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. If you want to download VLC media player installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit VideoLAN Project Team website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of VLC media player

You still cannot access HEVC files although VLC media player is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. If you have an older version of VLC media player installed, it may not support HEVC format. The latest version of VLC media player should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate HEVC Video Data Format files with VLC media player

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate HEVC files with latest version of VLC media player you have installed on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the HEVC file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the VLC media player installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open HEVC files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected HEVC file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with HEVC extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the HEVC file is complete and free of errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper HEVC file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Verify that the HEVC in question is not infected with a computer virus

Should it happed that the HEVC is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. HEVC file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Verify that the HEVC file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic HEVC file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. When downloading the file with HEVC extension from the internet an error may occurred resulting in incomplete file. Try downloading the file again.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle VLC media player

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with HEVC extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with HEVC Video Data Format files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle HEVC files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the HEVC file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on HEVC file.