Feature Request: Power File Converter Tool

[alanosman]

Description of the new feature / enhancement

I often find myself spending significant time and effort searching for simple, reliable tools to convert files between formats. It would be incredibly useful if PowerToys included a "Power File Converter" tool that integrates directly into the Windows right-click context menu.

Proposed Features:

• A streamlined interface accessible via the right-click menu for quick file conversions.
• Support for popular format conversions like:
  • Video to GIF: .MP4 → .GIF
  • Image conversions: .HEIC → .JPG, .PNG, etc.
  • Document conversions: .PDF → .Markdown, .HTML → .Word
• Advanced options, such as resolution/quality settings for images or format-specific options.
• Batch file conversion for increased efficiency.

Benefits:

• Saves users time by eliminating the need to search for and install various third-party tools.
• Integrates seamlessly into existing workflows.
• Simplifies file management for users with diverse needs.

The world would be a simpler place with this PowerToy. I hope this idea resonates and could find a spot in a future update!

Thank you for considering this feature.

Scenario when this would be used?

1. You’re preparing a presentation and need to quickly convert various types of files to formats compatible with your workflow:
   • You have an .MP4 file of a short animation but need a looping .GIF for embedding into your presentation slides.
   • Right-click the .MP4 file → Select Power File Converter → Choose .GIF → Conversion completes instantly.
2. A colleague sends you photos in .HEIC format from their iPhone, but you need .JPG files to upload to a shared drive that doesn't support .HEIC.
   • Select multiple .HEIC files → Right-click → Choose Convert to JPG under Power File Converter → All files are converted in one step.
3. You receive a .PDF with meeting notes but need them in Markdown format for importing into your team’s documentation system.
   • Right-click the .PDF → Choose Convert to Markdown → Paste the generated .MD file directly into your system.
4. While working on a blog post, you download an .HTML page for reference but need the content in Word format to make edits.
   • Right-click the .HTML file → Select Convert to Word → Open the converted file in Microsoft Word.

In all these cases, the Power File Converter saves time and eliminates the need for external tools or complicated workflows, letting you focus on your work instead of file format frustrations.

Supporting information

User Need:
Many users frequently deal with file conversion challenges, often resorting to external websites or tools that are cumbersome, slow, or come with privacy risks. A built-in, reliable solution within PowerToys would address this common pain point efficiently.

Existing Demand:
File conversion tools are one of the most commonly searched utilities online. Integrating this functionality into the Windows right-click menu provides a seamless user experience while meeting a clear, widespread demand.

Privacy and Security:
By offering local file conversion capabilities, users won’t need to rely on third-party services that require uploading sensitive files, ensuring better data privacy and security.

Precedent:
Similar features exist in standalone tools or extensions, but consolidating them into PowerToys would offer greater convenience and build on PowerToys' reputation for powerful, productivity-enhancing utilities.

Feasibility:
Libraries for many common conversions (e.g., FFmpeg for video/audio, ImageMagick for images, and Pandoc for documents) are open-source and can be integrated efficiently into PowerToys.

By addressing a universal workflow need, this feature would significantly enhance PowerToys’ value for professionals, students, and everyday users.

[similar-issues-ai]

We've found some similar issues:

• Files conversions with Right-Click Menu Integration in Power Toys #31472 , similarity score: 86%
• File Converter PowerToy #20131 , similarity score: 84%
• Changing File Type #25363 , similarity score: 84%
• FILE CONVERTER FEATURE #20683 , similarity score: 83%
• Add the amazing "File-Converter.org" (Right-Click Media Converter) to PowerToys #27177 , similarity score: 82%
• PowerConvert - Universal right-click file converter #21690 , similarity score: 81%

If any of the above are duplicates, please consider closing this issue out and adding additional context in the original issue.

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