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How to choose which similar photos to keep

Several shots of the same scene can look almost identical as thumbnails. Open them at a larger size before deciding. Start with the photo you most want to keep, then look for anything in the others that makes them worth saving too.

Compare the whole image first

Open Similar photos from PhotoSway's home screen. Each group appears in one row; scroll sideways to see more shots. Tap a photo to view it full screen, swipe between members of the group, or use the thumbnails at the bottom. Pinch to inspect faces, text, and details near the edges.

First look at composition and expressions. Then check focus, closed eyes, or anything blocking the subject. You can keep several photos from a group when each adds something you want.

Play the motion in Live Photos

PhotoSway compares the still image of a Live Photo. Similar stills can contain different motion or sound, so touch and hold in the full-screen viewer to play the Live Photo before making your choice.

Loading full media from iCloud may require a connection. If you cannot see the image clearly or the motion has not loaded, leave that decision for later.

Select only the shots you no longer want

Back in the group list, use the selection button on each unwanted photo, then add your selection to To delete. Opening a photo does not select it, and PhotoSway does not automatically choose a winner. Use Keep all when you want every photo in the group.

Review To delete after a few groups. For group portraits, check whether another shot captures a different expression or a detail that matters to you. Final deletion still requires system confirmation.

Understand what the results cover

Similarity analysis runs on your device and depends on the photos you allow access to and the images available locally. Results arrive as the first analysis progresses, so you can organize other photos and come back later. An empty result does not prove that your entire library has no similar shots.

For photos outside the results, browse their month or use the photo wall. Groups support your own visual decisions; they do not certify identical files or trigger automatic deletion.