icloud video type "file"

When I download my iphone videos from icloud.com, it downloads as a type "file". I cannot open it or do anything. I tried transferring from iphone to windows photos but i get errors for no reason. I assume the file is too big considering it is a 4k video. Any solutions for this?

Posted on Jun 28, 2023 10:21 AM

Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Posted on Jun 29, 2023 4:18 PM


Hey there nordicjamaikan,


Thanks for asking the Apple Support Communities about issues with importing your videos. We're happy to help.


In the picture you shared, there is a security warning, that since the file came from another computer, it might be blocked to protect your PC. There is a checkbox right next to that to unblock it. Check it and click "Apply".


Does it work then?


If not, since you are using a PC with no other info, it might be the file is not compatible with your PC. Check the info here: Using HEIF or HEVC media on Apple devices - Apple Support


"If sharing this media using other methods, such as AirDrop, Messages, or email, the media might automatically be shared in a more compatible format, such as JPEG or H.264, depending on whether the receiving device supports the newer media format.

To convert HEIF and HEVC media manually, export it to a different format from an Apple or third-party app. For example:

  • If you open an HEIF image in Photos or Preview on your Mac, choose File > Export, then choose a format such as JPEG or PNG before saving.
  • If you open an HEVC video in QuickTime Player on your Mac, choose File > Export As. In the dialog that opens, use the pop-up menu to change from Smaller File Size (HEVC) to Greater Compatibility (H.264) before you click Save. If you see an HEVC checkbox instead of a pop-up menu, just deselect the checkbox before saving.

Importing this media via USB

When you import HEIF or HEVC media from an attached iOS device into Photos, Image Capture, or a PC, the media might be converted to JPEG or H.264. If you don't want it to be converted, go to Settings > Photos on your iOS device, then scroll down and tap Keep Originals."


Also, is this only with videos? Any issues occurring if you test downloading photos from iCloud? That might point to an issue with the format.


Are you using iCloud Photos? That might disable manual import and be the error you get.


You could try iCloud Photos, or make sure you did the correct process here: Transfer photos and videos from your iPhone or iPad to your Mac or PC - Apple Support


"If you want to ensure photos from your iOS or iPadOS device have the best compatibility with Windows 10 or Windows 11, try these steps:

  1. On your iOS or iPadOS device, open the Settings app.
  2. Tap Camera, then tap Formats.
  3. Tap Most Compatible. From now on, your camera will create photos and videos in JPEG and H.264 formats."


Thanks.

1 reply
Question marked as Top-ranking reply

Jun 29, 2023 4:18 PM in response to Community User


Hey there nordicjamaikan,


Thanks for asking the Apple Support Communities about issues with importing your videos. We're happy to help.


In the picture you shared, there is a security warning, that since the file came from another computer, it might be blocked to protect your PC. There is a checkbox right next to that to unblock it. Check it and click "Apply".


Does it work then?


If not, since you are using a PC with no other info, it might be the file is not compatible with your PC. Check the info here: Using HEIF or HEVC media on Apple devices - Apple Support


"If sharing this media using other methods, such as AirDrop, Messages, or email, the media might automatically be shared in a more compatible format, such as JPEG or H.264, depending on whether the receiving device supports the newer media format.

To convert HEIF and HEVC media manually, export it to a different format from an Apple or third-party app. For example:

  • If you open an HEIF image in Photos or Preview on your Mac, choose File > Export, then choose a format such as JPEG or PNG before saving.
  • If you open an HEVC video in QuickTime Player on your Mac, choose File > Export As. In the dialog that opens, use the pop-up menu to change from Smaller File Size (HEVC) to Greater Compatibility (H.264) before you click Save. If you see an HEVC checkbox instead of a pop-up menu, just deselect the checkbox before saving.

Importing this media via USB

When you import HEIF or HEVC media from an attached iOS device into Photos, Image Capture, or a PC, the media might be converted to JPEG or H.264. If you don't want it to be converted, go to Settings > Photos on your iOS device, then scroll down and tap Keep Originals."


Also, is this only with videos? Any issues occurring if you test downloading photos from iCloud? That might point to an issue with the format.


Are you using iCloud Photos? That might disable manual import and be the error you get.


You could try iCloud Photos, or make sure you did the correct process here: Transfer photos and videos from your iPhone or iPad to your Mac or PC - Apple Support


"If you want to ensure photos from your iOS or iPadOS device have the best compatibility with Windows 10 or Windows 11, try these steps:

  1. On your iOS or iPadOS device, open the Settings app.
  2. Tap Camera, then tap Formats.
  3. Tap Most Compatible. From now on, your camera will create photos and videos in JPEG and H.264 formats."


Thanks.

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icloud video type "file"

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