Top Genealogy Trends to Watch This Year

• Enhanced Tools for Analyzing Matches

New features are becoming available on platforms like AncestryDNA, MyHeritage, and 23andMe:

• Chromosome browser improvements

• Better match clustering

• Shared match grouping

• Tools that compare multiple DNA kits simultaneously

These updates help genealogists identify relationships, solidify hypotheses, and uncover previously unknown family branches with greater clarity.

• Ethical DNA Use & Privacy Awareness

As DNA testing continues to be widely used, more platforms are highlighting privacy settings, data ownership, and consent. Genealogists are becoming more mindful about how they use genetic data—both their own and that of living relatives.

2. New Tech Tools & Software: Research Just Got Easier

Technology has become inseparable from modern genealogy. This year, expect a wave of new tools that improve organization, analysis, and storytelling.

• AI-Powered Research Assistants

Artificial intelligence is becoming a huge asset for genealogists. Tools are emerging that:

• Transcribe old handwritten records

• Suggest potential family connections

• Help analyze DNA clusters

• Assist in writing family narratives

These tools aren’t replacing researchers—but they are speeding up tedious tasks.

• Improved Family Tree Software

Programs like RootsMagic, Family Tree Maker, Legacy, and online platforms such as Ancestry and MyHeritage continue to roll out updates:

• Cleaner tree layouts

• More robust citation tools

• Cross-platform syncing

• Better integration with DNA results

These improvements streamline research and make tree-building more intuitive.

• Photo Restoration & Colorization Advances

Genealogists love old photos, and this year’s tech is making them clearer than ever.
Expect:

• Sharper facial restoration

• Smarter colorization tools

• Automatic repair for scratches and aging

These upgrades make it easier to preserve and share family memories.

Archives, Libraries & Databases: What’s New This Year

Behind every great genealogist is a treasure trove of records, and archivists continue to digitize collections at an incredible pace.

• Massive Digitization Projects

FamilySearch, the National Archives, and state archives across the country are ramping up digitization efforts. Millions of new images are becoming available, often before indexing—so browsing may become an even more essential skill this year.

• More Local Records Going Online

County courthouses, historical societies, and regional archives are partnering with genealogy platforms to digitize:

• Land records

• Tax lists

• Court proceedings

• Probate files

• Newspapers

These local-level records can break down major brick walls.

• Expanded Access to Newspapers

Newspapers.com, GenealogyBank, and Chronicling America continue to add:

• Small-town papers

• Obituary archives

• Historic publications

These sources provide the personal details missing from census or vital records.

• Library Genealogy Departments Are Growing

Many libraries are expanding their genealogy rooms, databases, and community programs. Expect:

• More local history programs

• Volunteer indexing groups

• Beginner-friendly workshops

• Access to premium research databases

Libraries remain one of the most valuable and underused genealogy resources—often offering access to paid sites for free.