You may have already tried to open a video file in Windows 10 or Windows 11 using the HEVC (H.265) compression standard using your computer’s native player. Failed to play this type of video file without success, the player configured on Windows requires the installation of a dedicated codec.
Although this HEVC video extension (used for 4K videos) can be downloaded from the Microsoft Store, unfortunately it is not free. It officially costs 0.99 euros to download the HEVC extension. If this amount is definitely moderate, it would be a mistake to pay to play video on an operating system like Windows 11.
The first instinct many users have is to download a third-party media player that supports this type of encryption. For example, this is the case with the best VLC, open source and completely free multimedia player.
However, if you completely insist on playing videos using the HEVC codec with your own Windows player, you can do so without spending a single penny. There is a very simple hack to download this codec from Microsoft Store without spending a single penny.
Also watch the video:
To do this, open your favorite web browser, copy and paste the following link and press the Enter key on the keyboard.
ms-windows-store: // pdp /? ProductId = 9n4wgh0z6vhq
In the dialog that appears, click the button Open the Microsoft Store.
The Microsoft Store should open a dedicated download page for the HEVC video extension for your computer, and give you a button that allows you to install it for free.
Once installed, you can play videos with your own Windows player using this codec.
Beatrice Ashford is a contributor at Nintendo-power.com, covering a wide range of topics including news, politics, business, technology, sport, entertainment, and lifestyle. She focuses on delivering clear, balanced reporting and useful information that helps readers stay informed about current events and emerging developments. Her work highlights stories that matter to everyday audiences, with an emphasis on accuracy, relevance, and accessible journalism that keeps readers connected to the issues shaping the world around them.