How to delete duplicate photos on iPhone
Using the built-in Duplicates
- Open Photos and tap Collections.
- Tap Utilities, then Duplicates.
- Tap Merge on a set of duplicates, then tap Merge [number] Items.
Apple's guide for earlier versions says merging keeps the highest quality version and moves the others to Recently Deleted, where they stay for 30 days.
Why your storage may not change right away
Deleted photos stay in Recently Deleted for 30 days. To free up the space sooner, open Recently Deleted and unlock it, tap Select, choose the photos, then choose Delete. With iCloud Photos on, photos you delete are removed from your other devices too.
Other easy clutter to clear
- Old screenshots: most were only useful for a day. Do look before you delete, though, because some hold backup codes or other private details.
- Burst photos: a burst saves many near-identical shots in a second or two, and you usually only want one.
- Receipts and pictures of documents: keep what you need, and clear the rest.
How FirstHour helps
Tidy up sorts your pictures into groups on your iPhone, and suggests Duplicates, Burst photos and Old screenshots to clear. For duplicates, one button keeps the best copy of each and deletes the others, and for bursts, it keeps the key photo and any shots you starred. iPhone asks once before anything is deleted. It doesn't check videos, and everyday photo groups like People don't have a Delete all button.
Questions
Are duplicate finder apps safe?
Check what access they ask for, whether they upload your pictures, and how they charge. Your iPhone's built-in Duplicates needs no extra app.
Can I get merged photos back?
You should find the extras in Recently Deleted for 30 days, where you can recover them.
Sources
- Merge duplicate photos and videos on iPhone, Apple Support
- Find and delete duplicate photos and videos (iOS 16), Apple Support
- Delete or hide photos and videos on iPhone, Apple Support