iOS 16 Unable to Merge Duplicates Duplicate photos cannot be merged at this time.

Hi samacur,

Thanks for the post. We'd like to get a few details to start out. We see you mentioned iOS 16, and also your post mentions an iPad. To confirm, are you using an iPad with iPadOS 16, or is the issue occurring on an iPhone? This will help us make sure we provide the most relevant steps.

If you're using an iPhone, it might help to test the merge function from both cellular data and a Wi-Fi connection. Do you get the same results on both?

Also, for verification, these are the steps you're following when that error appears? Find and delete duplicate photos and videos on iPhone

"1) Tap Albums, then tap Duplicates below Utilities.

Duplicate photos and videos appear next to each other.

2) Tap Merge to combine the duplicates, then tap Merge [number] Items.

Merging combines the highest quality version and all of the relevant data across the duplicates, and keeps that one in your library. The remaining duplicates are moved to the Recently Deleted album."

If those are the steps you're following and you continue to get an error, we also want to make sure you've updated to either iPadOS 16.3 or iOS 16.3, depending on your device. This could help if you're using an outdated software version. Be sure to back up first: Update your iPhone or iPad - Apple Support

Take care.

Thanks for the reply, samacur.

It sounds like you're taking the correct steps to help with the issue. If this does not correct the duplicates, Contact Apple Support directly for additional guidance.

All the best.