Declutr

Product Introduction

1. Definition: Declutr is a native macOS file organization utility (category: System Enhancement / Productivity Software) that automates the sorting of files within a user-defined folder. It operates by analyzing file extensions and applying user-configurable rules to move items into categorized subfolders, all performed locally on the device.
2. Core Value Proposition: It exists to solve digital clutter and disorganization on macOS by providing instant, one-click folder cleanup with a guaranteed, system-level undo function. Its primary value is in saving time for users who accumulate unsorted files in high-traffic directories like ~/Downloads and ~/Desktop, transforming chaotic spaces into structured systems without manual effort.

Main Features

1. Extension-Based Automatic Categorization: Declutr scans a selected folder and identifies files by their extensions (e.g., .pdf, .jpg, .mov). It then automatically moves them into pre-defined, visually distinct category folders such as "Documents," "Images," "Videos," "Archives," "Code & Scripts," and "3D Models." Each category folder has a unique, recognizable icon for rapid visual identification in Finder.
2. Smart Rules Engine (Pro Feature): This is a conditional logic system that allows users to create custom sorting rules that execute before the default category sorting. Rules can match files based on multiple attributes: filename (including wildcards), specific file extension, file age (creation/modification date), and file size. Conditions can be combined with AND/OR logic. Actions include moving matched files to a user-named folder or instructing Declutr to skip them entirely.
3. Automated Folder Watching & Scheduling (Pro Feature): Declutr Pro can monitor a designated folder (like Downloads) in real-time. When a new file lands in that directory, the app automatically sorts it according to the active rules and categories. Alternatively, users can set a daily scheduled cleanup, allowing for hands-off, continuous organization without any user intervention.

Problems Solved

1. Pain Point: Manual file organization is a repetitive, time-consuming task that leads to procrastination and cluttered workspaces (Desktop, Downloads). This clutter reduces productivity, increases the time spent searching for files, and can lead to data loss or duplication.
2. Target Audience: The primary user personas include knowledge workers, students, creative professionals (photographers, video editors), developers, and individuals with ADHD or anyone who struggles with executive function tasks related to digital housekeeping. It is ideal for users of Apple silicon and Intel Macs running macOS Ventura or later.
3. Use Cases: Essential for instantly cleaning a perpetually messy Downloads folder after a work session; maintaining a pristine Desktop for screen sharing and mental clarity; automatically organizing project assets (images, documents, source code) dumped into a shared project folder; and providing a safety net for organization with its one-click "Undo" for any mistaken cleanup.

Unique Advantages

1. Differentiation: Unlike AI-powered organizers that may upload data for analysis or subscription-based services, Declutr uses a transparent, rules-based logic that operates 100% locally. Compared to built-in macOS tools like Automator, it requires zero scripting. Versus competitors like Hazel, it offers a zero-configuration, one-click starting point with a more accessible pricing model (one-time purchase vs. higher upfront cost).
2. Key Innovation: The combination of instant, zero-configuration sorting with a comprehensive, system-level Undo function. This "risk-free" cleanup lowers the barrier to use dramatically. The Pro features (Smart Rules, Watched Folders) then layer powerful automation on top of this simple core, creating a seamless progression from basic to advanced organization without changing apps.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Is Declutr safe? Does it delete files or upload my data? No, Declutr does not delete files or upload any data. It functions entirely locally on your Mac. It only moves files from one location to another within the same parent folder you select. The "Undo" feature utilizes macOS system APIs to perfectly reverse every move.

2. What is the difference between Declutr Free and Declutr Pro? Declutr Free allows for manual, on-demand sorting of any folder into default categories with full undo capability. Declutr Pro, a one-time in-app purchase, unlocks automation: Scheduled Cleanups, the Smart Rules engine for custom file routing, Folder Watching for automatic sorting of new files, and the ability to create custom file categories.

3. Can I customize where specific files or types of files go? Yes, with the Pro version's Smart Rules. You can create rules to match files by name (e.g., *invoice*), extension, age, or size, and then send them to a specific custom folder or exclude them from sorting entirely. These user-defined rules execute prior to the default category sorting.

4. How does Declutr handle files with no extension or unknown types? Files that do not match any user-defined Smart Rule or built-in category (based on a comprehensive internal extension database) are placed into an "Other" folder. Users can then manually handle these items or create a new custom category in the Pro version to accommodate them in the future.

5. Does Declutr work with cloud-synced folders like iCloud Drive or Dropbox? Yes, Declutr can organize any folder visible in the macOS file system, including those synced with iCloud Drive, Dropbox, or Google Drive. However, users should be aware that moving large numbers of files within a synced folder may trigger significant re-uploading activity by the cloud service.