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Where to Find a Purchased HEVC Video Extension in Windows
Question details
The user needs to locate a purchased HEVC Video Extension on their Windows device to open or print specific photo and video files.
- Product
- Windows
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Attempting to open media files (such as high-efficiency photos or videos) that require the HEVC codec, but the purchased extension cannot be found.
- Observed behavior
- The HEVC Video Extension does not appear to be active on the device, and the purchase history is not readily visible in the Microsoft account subscription area.
Ensure you are signed in to your Windows device and the Microsoft Store using the exact Microsoft account that was used to purchase the HEVC Video Extension.
Verify HEVC Extension Installation via Windows Settings
Check your Windows installed applications list to see if the HEVC extension is already downloaded and installed on your system.
Sometimes the extension is installed but not functioning correctly. Verifying its presence in your system settings is the fastest way to confirm whether the codec is available to your media applications.
Press the Windows key + I on your keyboard, or click the Start menu and select the gear icon to open the Settings application.
Click on 'Apps' in the left-hand sidebar or main menu, then select 'Apps & features' (or 'Installed apps' if you are using Windows 11).
In the search bar located under the apps list, type 'HEVC'. If the codec is installed, you will see 'HEVC Video Extensions' or 'HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer' appear in the list.
Check Microsoft Store Library and Order History
If the extension is missing from your installed apps, you can locate your purchase and re-download it via the Microsoft Store or your account dashboard.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why do I need the HEVC Video Extension on Windows?
The HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding) Video Extension allows compatible Windows 10 and Windows 11 devices to play video files formatted in H.265. It is also required by the native Windows Photos app to properly view and print HEIC photos taken on modern smartphones like iPhones.
What should I do if the Microsoft Store asks me to pay for HEVC again?
This usually happens if you are logged into a different Microsoft account than the one used for the original purchase. Open the Microsoft Store, click your profile icon at the top right, sign out, and sign back in using the correct Microsoft account.
Are there free alternatives to the HEVC Video Extension for playing videos?
Yes. If you only need to play HEVC videos and do not need to integrate the codec into native Windows apps (like Photos or Movies & TV), you can download free third-party media players such as VLC Media Player, which come with built-in codecs and bypass the need for a Windows extension.
