A conflicted copy is a duplicate file created automatically by syncing services (like OneDrive, Dropbox, or SharePoint) when it detects a version conflict that it cannot resolve automatically. This happens if the same file is changed independently by different people or devices before the service can synchronize those changes successfully. Opening the conflicted copy allows you to access the specific version saved from that particular device or edit session, distinct from the current main version on the server.

For instance, you might encounter a conflicted copy when you and a colleague simultaneously edit a shared PowerPoint presentation stored in SharePoint, or if you edited a document on your laptop offline while someone else updated it on the web version of Microsoft 365. These services typically append "Conflicted Copy" plus the username and date to the filename (e.g., "Report_Conflicted Copy_YourName_20231015.docx").

Opening the conflicted copy gives you access to potentially valuable edits that would otherwise be lost. However, it forces manual review and merging into the main file, creating extra work and risk of overwriting changes. This protects against unintended data loss during conflicts but can disrupt workflow efficiency. Services continue to improve automatic conflict resolution, reducing the frequency of manual merging needed.