Duplicate files · Duplicate messages and problems
Why couldn't Storage Studio remove the extra duplicate copies?
Short answer: The message says why: the copies were already gone (scan again), the kept copy couldn't be verified, macOS refused because a file is locked, in use or protected, or removals are paused until you connect your external drive. Nothing is removed when a check fails.
A removal can stop for a few reasons, and the message says which:
- "The items were already gone" — the extra copies were moved or deleted since the scan. Click Scan now for a fresh list.
- "The copy you're keeping couldn't be verified…" — the kept copy was moved or can't be read, so nothing was removed.
- "Couldn't remove the extra copies: …" — macOS refused, often because a file is locked, in use, or in a folder you don't have permission to change. Close any app using it, check the file isn't locked in Get Info, and try again.
- Removals paused — if the Recycle Vault's space on your Mac is full and no drive is connected, connect your external drive and try again.