Upscale old phone photos: recover the original file first
Distinguish originals from cloud previews and chat copies, convert HEIC when needed and preserve an untouched backup.
Find the version with the most information
Check the old phone library, computer import folders and original cloud files. Compare pixel dimensions, not only file size: a larger file may simply have been re-encoded. A cloud preview or forwarded chat image is not necessarily the best source.
Keep an original and export an upload copy
The tool accepts static JPG, PNG and WebP files up to 10 MB, with aspect ratios from 1:3 to 3:1. Convert HEIC externally first. Preserve pixel dimensions and check orientation, color and transparency during conversion. Export a still frame separately from a motion photo.
Decide from the defect
Low-light noise, lens smears and motion trails are different problems. Inspect faces, bright edges and text. If essential content is unreadable, look for another photo from the same occasion rather than expecting AI to recover an authentic record.
Check one representative photo
Choose one photo from a group and decide on screen or print use before processing. Inspect the actual returned dimensions. Successful processing uses credits and still needs human review. Keep source and output separately; never overwrite the only family-photo backup.
| Situation | Suggested action | What to check |
|---|---|---|
| Only a chat thumbnail remains | Ask the photographer for the original | Avoid compressing a screenshot again |
| HEIC or motion photo | Convert externally and export a still copy | Pixels, orientation and color |
| Several similar frames | Choose the better-focused frame | Real detail matters more than file size |
Format conversion cannot add authentic detail. Keep the original file rather than deleting it to make room for an upload.