Banding issues on HEIC image on Windows 11 Photos app

Understanding Banding Artifacts in HEIC Images on Windows 11: Causes and Solutions

Introduction

With the increasing popularity of high-quality images captured on iPhones and other modern devices, the HEIC (High Efficiency Image Format) has become a standard for storing photos due to its excellent compression and image quality. However, users working on Windows 11 may encounter visual anomalies such as banding artifacts when viewing or editing HEIC images. This article explores the root causes of these issues and provides guidance on how to address them for a better imaging experience.

What Are Banding Issues?

Banding artifacts are visual disturbances that manifest as abrupt changes or “bands” of color or tone, often resulting from insufficient color gradation or compression errors. When viewing HEIC images on Windows 11’s Photos app or editing tools like Adobe Photoshop Elements (and similarly in IrfanView), these artifacts can become noticeable, detracting from the image’s quality.

Potential Causes

HEIF Image Extension Limitations

Windows 11 utilizes the “HEIF Image Extension” from the Microsoft Store to enable native viewing and editing of HEIC files. If this extension relies on outdated decoding algorithms, it may not accurately render color gradations, leading to banding artifacts.

Decoding and Compression Artifacts

HEIC images, especially those heavily compressed or exported from certain apps, may contain subtle artifacts that become more prominent during viewing or editing. If the decoding process is suboptimal, these issues can be exacerbated.

Differences Between Platforms

Interestingly, the same HEIC images may appear without issues on Android Gallery apps. This disparity suggests that the problem is rooted in Windows 11’s decoding and rendering capabilities rather than the images themselves.

Addressing the Issue

Update the HEIF Image Extension

Ensuring that the HEIF Image Extension installed from the Microsoft Store is up to date can improve decoding accuracy. To check or update:

Open Microsoft Store.
Search for “HEIF Image Extension.”
If an update is available, install it.
Restart your system and retest the images.
Use Alternative Image Viewers

Third-party viewers like IrfanView (with appropriate plugins) or FastStone may use different decoding engines, potentially reducing banding artifacts. Consider testing with these tools for improved rendering.