What it does
Cleaner AI is a comprehensive utility app designed to help users reclaim storage space on their devices. Its primary function is to identify and delete duplicate photos, similar-looking images, and redundant screenshots. The app's toolset extends beyond photos to include an email cleaner for managing inbox clutter, a contact organizer for merging duplicates, a video compressor to reduce file sizes, and a secure 'Secret Gallery' for hiding private media.
Where it shines
The app excels at making the tedious task of cleaning feel quick and rewarding. The 'Best' photo suggestion (01:33) is a standout feature, using AI to pre-select the best shot from a group of similar images. This simple badge dramatically reduces decision fatigue, turning a slow comparison task into a quick confirmation. Another strong point is the Secret Gallery (02:53), which cleverly integrates a privacy feature with the core cleaning loop. By prompting users to 'Remove after import' (03:09), it creates a seamless workflow for securing sensitive photos while simultaneously cleaning them from the main library.
UX highlights
- Guided Defaults: The app consistently uses smart defaults. It pre-selects one of each duplicate pair for deletion (01:02), making bulk cleaning efficient.
- Satisfying Feedback: After every major action, like deleting files or subscribing, the app displays a confetti animation and a confirmation screen (01:24), providing positive reinforcement.
- Clear Categorization: The main dashboard (00:53) neatly organizes media into logical categories like 'Duplicates', 'Similar', and 'Similar Screenshots', giving users a clear path to start cleaning.
- Contextual Tutorials: The app uses brief, animated screens to introduce features like duplicate removal (00:14) just before the user engages with them.
- Comprehensive Filtering: Within cleaning modules, users can filter by date range or sort by file size (01:08), offering powerful controls for advanced users.
Monetization & growth
The app uses a free trial model with a paywall presented early in the onboarding (00:25). It gates all functionality, meaning users must start a trial to use the app. The paywall itself is simple, presenting a single weekly subscription plan and highlighting key features unlocked. A unique touch is the 'Free trial enabled' toggle animation shown just before the paywall, which frames the trial as an automatic benefit. After a successful subscription, a 'Congratulations' screen (00:47) welcomes the user as a Pro Member, reinforcing their purchase decision.
Who it’s for
Cleaner AI is for any smartphone user who feels overwhelmed by a cluttered photo library, a messy inbox, or a disorganized contact list. Its primary audience is likely non-technical users who want a simple, all-in-one solution for freeing up storage without manually sifting through thousands of files. The 'Secret Gallery' feature also appeals to users who prioritize privacy and want a secure place to store sensitive photos and videos away from their main camera roll.
Notes & opportunities
While effective, the onboarding relies on a simulated 'scan' (00:03-00:13) which could be perceived as a dark pattern by some users. The numbers shown are illustrative rather than actual results of a scan. The app also has many distinct features, but the main dashboard could feel a bit dense. Grouping some of the less common categories like 'Chat Photos' or 'Screen Rec' under an 'Advanced' section might simplify the initial view for new users.