The recently released feature in iOS 16 that allows users to easily identify and delete duplicate photos on their iPhones has been a game-changer for many. This built-in tool automatically detects identical copies of photos and groups them together in a separate album, making it simple to merge them and free up storage space. However, this tool has its limitations, as it only works with exact duplicates and may not detect near-duplicates.
For those photos with slight variations or minimal differences, users have the option to either manually search and delete them or utilize third-party apps with more advanced detection algorithms from the App Store. While this may seem like a daunting task, following the steps provided in this article can make the process smooth and efficient.
One of the simplest methods to clear duplicates and similar photos on an iPhone is to use the native “Duplicates” utility. This tool, available in iOS 16 and later, showcases grouped duplicate images and allows users to merge them, keeping the best quality photo while deleting the rest. Despite occasional glitches where it fails to recognize duplicates, the tool remains a valuable asset in organizing and optimizing storage on iPhones.
If you prefer a quicker and more comprehensive method, you can select all duplicate groups at once and merge them in a single action. This streamlines the process and ensures that you can efficiently manage a large number of duplicates without handling each group individually.
For photos with slight differences that the built-in utility may not catch, utilizing specialized apps like Clever Cleaner can be an effective solution. These apps employ advanced algorithms to detect near-duplicates and provide users with the option to select the best photo from each group for deletion. With features like Smart Cleanup and selective deletion, these apps offer a more tailored approach to managing similar photos on iPhones.
Once duplicates and similar photos have been identified and deleted, it is essential to finalize the cleaning process by emptying the Recently Deleted album. This step ensures that the deleted items are permanently removed from the device and frees up storage space immediately.
In conclusion, by following the steps outlined in this article and utilizing the tools and apps mentioned, iPhone users can efficiently remove duplicates and similar photos, optimize storage space, and keep their photo galleries organized. Additionally, considering other unnecessary files and apps for deletion can further maximize storage capacity on iPhones. With a little patience and effort, users can significantly enhance the performance and efficiency of their devices.