Deleting multiple contacts on an iPhone can be challenging. iPhones do not have a built-in option for bulk deletion. However, there are ways to delete multiple contacts quickly. This guide explains different methods to remove multiple contacts on an iPhone.
Why Delete Multiple Contacts?
There are many reasons to delete multiple contacts. You may have duplicate contacts or old numbers. Cleaning up contacts makes your phonebook organized and easier to use.
Method 1: Using iCloud to Delete Multiple Contacts
The easiest way to delete multiple contacts on iPhone is through iCloud.
Steps:
- Open a browser on your computer.
- Visit iCloud.com.
- Sign in with your Apple ID.
- Click Contacts.
- Press Ctrl (Windows) or Command (Mac) and select multiple contacts.
- Click the gear icon at the bottom left.
- Select Delete.
- Confirm the deletion.
Method 2: Using the Contacts App on Mac
If you have a Mac, you can delete multiple contacts easily.
Steps:
- Open the Contacts app on your Mac.
- Sign in with the same Apple ID as your iPhone.
- Press Command and select multiple contacts.
- Right-click and choose Delete Cards.
- Confirm the deletion.
Method 3: Using Third-Party Apps
You can use third-party apps to delete multiple contacts on your iPhone.
Popular Apps:
- Groups: Allows bulk deletion.
- Cleaner Pro: Finds duplicate contacts.
- Delete Contacts+: Removes unwanted contacts quickly.
Steps:
- Download a contacts manager app from the App Store.
- Open the app and grant access to contacts.
- Select multiple contacts.
- Tap Delete and confirm.
Method 4: Manually Deleting Contacts One by One
If you have a few contacts to delete, you can do it manually.
Steps:
- Open the Contacts app.
- Select the contact you want to delete.
- Tap Edit at the top right.
- Scroll down and tap Delete Contact.
- Confirm the deletion.
- Repeat for other contacts.
How to Prevent Duplicate Contacts
Duplicate contacts can clutter your phonebook. Here’s how to prevent them.
1. Merge Duplicate Contacts
- Open the Contacts app.
- Select a duplicate contact.
- Tap Edit and add the same number to another contact.
- Delete the extra contact.
2. Use iCloud to Sync Contacts
- Open Settings on your iPhone.
- Tap your Apple ID.
- Select iCloud.
- Turn on Contacts Sync.
3. Avoid Importing Contacts Multiple Times
- Do not import the same contacts from SIM and iCloud.
- Check contact sources in Settings > Contacts.
Common Issues and Fixes
1. Deleted Contacts Still Appear
- Ensure iCloud sync is turned on.
- Restart your iPhone.
- Check if contacts are stored on other accounts like Gmail.
2. Cannot Select Multiple Contacts on iPhone
- iPhone does not support bulk deletion directly.
- Use iCloud or a third-party app instead.
Conclusion
Deleting multiple contacts on an iPhone is possible using iCloud, Mac, or third-party apps. Manually deleting contacts is time-consuming. Using these methods, you can keep your contact list clean and organized.

Tech2Drive is a top technology blog covering Blockchain, AI, Chatbots, Fintech, Health Tech, Software Development, and Testing.