To download the HEVC Video Extension for free, you can look at numerous options that will allow you to play HEVC (H.265) videos without paying for the codec. While the official extension on the Microsoft Store is paid, there are free ways to enable HEVC playback on your device. Here’s a fast tutorial to getting the HEVC Video Extension for free, using various approaches.
Depending on your operating system, you can get the HEVC Video Extension for free in one of several ways:
1. Microsoft Store’s Free Alternative
While the official HEVC Video Extension is paid on the Microsoft Store, device manufacturers often provide a free version. Here’s how:
- Launch the Microsoft Store from your Windows device.
- Look for “HEVC Video Extension”.
- If you find an option called “HEVC Video Extensions from Device Manufacturer”, it is usually free.
- This version is frequently pre-installed on certain models, and Microsoft provides it for free to users of specific devices (such as OEMs and laptops).
2. Use third-party video players with built-in HEVC Support
If you’re not paired to the built-in video player on Windows 10/11 and only need HEVC compatibility for playback, you can use third-party software that provides native HEVC codec support for free:
VLC Media Player: This free and open-source media player supports HEVC (H.265) out of the box. Download from the VLC official website.
PotPlayer: Another free player that supports HEVC without requiring additional add-ons. Download from the PotPlayer official website.
These choices allow you to play HEVC videos without having to pay for the codec.
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3. Using Adguard To Download The HEVC Video Extension
Adguard is a third-party web service and online link generator that allows you to easily download appx, appxbundle, and msixbundle files from the Microsoft Store.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of downloading the HEVC Video Extension (HEVC Codec) using Adguard.
- First, find the app’s URL on the Microsoft Store. In your browser, navigate to the Microsoft Store and search for the HEVC Video Extension. When you discover it, copy the app URL, including the product ID, from the address bar (or simply copy the link below):
https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/p/hevc-video-extensions-from-device-manufacturer/9n4wgh0z6vhq
- Next, go to the Adguard page: https://store.rg-adguard.net/
- Paste the app URL in the space provided.
- Then, click the check mark button to generate a direct download link.
- The page will populate with msixbundle, appx, or appxbundle files, as well as other associated files.
- In most cases, you only need to download the full app package and not the app dependencies.
- For the HEVC Video Extension, you only need to download the .appxbundle file, which is the largest file in the list (~7MB).
- Make sure to check the architecture compatibility (x64, x86, Arm) for the files, depending on your system architecture.
- Finally, click the .appxbundle link to download the package.
4. Codec Packs
If you want to use other video players that use system codecs, you can install third-party codec packs such as K-Lite Codec Pack, which supports HEVC.
Download from: K-Lite Codec Pack
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the official HEVC Video Extension on the Microsoft Store is paid, you can easily access HEVC support for free through the above alternatives. With these options, you can avoid paying for the extension while still enjoying HEVC (H.265) video playback on your device.
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