If you sync contacts from multiple services, such as Google, Facebook, or WhatsApp, you may end up with multiple entries for the same person. This guide will show you how to delete duplicate contacts on Android using built-in features and a helpful app.
Before you start: Ensure your Android device is updated, you have a stable internet connection, and you are signed in to your Google account if using Google Contacts.
Follow these simple methods to clean up your contact list and remove unwanted duplicates.
Method 1: Using the Google Contacts app. First, Open the Google Contacts app. If you don’t have it, download it from the Play Store. Next, Tap the ☰ menu icon in the top-left corner. Then, Select Suggestions from the menu list. Tap Clean up duplicates to view potential matches. Finally, Tap Merge on a suggestion or use Merge All to consolidate multiple duplicates at once.
Method 2: Using the Stock Contacts app. Open your device’s default Contacts app (often found on the home screen or app drawer). Tap the Menu or More icon (usually three dots or lines) in the top-right corner. Select the option labeled Merge contacts. Tap the specific contacts you wish to merge to select them. Tap Merge to combine the selected entries.
Method 3: Using Simpler Merge Duplicates app. Open the Google Play Store app on your device. Type “Simpler Merge Duplicates” into the search bar. Tap the app icon (blue background with two white silhouettes) and hit Install. Open the installed Cleaner app and tap Get Started. Log in with Google or Facebook to create an account and allow contact permissions. Tap Duplicate Contacts under the “Duplicates” section. Select a contact to view specific duplicates and verify the final merge result. Tap Merge to finalize the process and remove the duplicates.
Pro tip: After merging your contacts, take a moment to back up your address book to Google Drive. This ensures that your cleaned-up list is saved and can be restored if you switch phones or reset your device.
Maintaining a clean contact list is essential for efficient communication. Duplicate entries can lead to confusion, causing you to send messages to the wrong person or miss calls because you are unsure which number is active. By removing these duplicates, you ensure that your dialer and messaging apps function correctly and that you have a clear view of your connections.
Furthermore, a streamlined contact database improves your device’s performance and syncs better across different platforms. It saves storage space and reduces the clutter that makes searching for specific people difficult. Regularly cleaning your contacts helps keep your digital address book organized and up to date.
