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What is the difference between Duplicate and Similar scans?

CleanX uses Duplicate and Similar scans to help you find media that may no longer be needed.

The two scans work differently:

Duplicate

A Duplicate scan looks for files that are identical or effectively the same. For example, CleanX may find multiple copies of the same photo or video.

Similar

A Similar scan looks for items that are not exact copies but are visually or otherwise closely related. For example, CleanX may group:

  • Burst photos

  • Multiple photos of the same scene

  • Screenshots showing the same content

  • Multiple takes of a video

Similar results are broader than duplicate results, so they require more careful review. Two similar photos may look almost the same, but both may be important to you.

How to review Duplicate or Similar results

  1. Select Duplicate or Similar from the cleanup categories.

  2. Open a result group.

  3. Compare the items in the detail view.

  4. Keep the items you want to preserve.

  5. Deselect anything you do not want to remove.

  6. Confirm the cleanup only after reviewing the group.

Important

Similar results are suggestions, not guaranteed duplicates. Always review a group before deleting anything.

If a result appears to be grouped incorrectly, keep the items and report the issue. Include your device model, CleanX app version, category, and a screenshot without sensitive media whenever possible.

Availability

Duplicate and Similar scans are available on iOS and Android, but detection behavior may vary depending on the platform and app version.

Photos or media access and a completed scan are required.

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