History of Google Algorithm Updates
Below we have compiled a full list of Google algorithm launches, updates, and refreshes that have rolled out over the years, as well as links to resources for SEO professionals who want to understand each of these changes.
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What are Google Algorithms?
Google’s algorithms are a complex system used to retrieve data from its search index and instantly deliver the best possible results for a query. The search engine uses a combination of algorithms and numerous ranking factors to deliver webpages ranked by relevance on its search engine results pages (SERPs).
In its early years, Google only made a handful of updates to its algorithms. Now, Google makes thousands of changes every year.
Most of these updates are so slight that they go completely unnoticed. However, on occasion, the search engine rolls out major algorithmic updates that significantly impact the SERPs such as:
Below, we have compiled a comprehensive list of Google algorithm updates sorted by their release dates.
Updated:
December 2025 Core Update
Google launched the December core update on December 11, which affects search results globally. The rollout was completed on December 29, taking 18 days to complete.
Google Releases December 2025 Core Update ⇾
December Core Update: More Brands Win “Best Of” Queries ⇾
4 Sites That Recovered From Google’s December 2025 Core Update – What They Changed ⇾
August 2025 Spam Update
Google began rolling out its August core update on August 26. The update finished rolling out on September 21, taking 26 days to complete.
Google Rolls Out August Spam Update Targeting Search Quality ⇾
June 2025 Core Update
Google began rolling out its June core update on June 3o. The update finished rolling out on July 17, taking over two weeks to complete.
Google's June 2025 Core Update Is Complete ⇾
Google’s John Mueller: Core Updates Build On Long-Term Data ⇾
March 2025 Core Update
Google launched its March core update on March 13 and finished rolling out the update on March 27, taking two weeks to complete.
Google Begins Rolling Out March Core Algorithm Update ⇾
Google’s March Core Update: Early Observations From Initial Rollout ⇾