Google Declares December 2024 Core Update Fully Deployed

Google has officially announced the completion of its December 2024 core algorithm update. The rollout, which began on December 12, concluded after six days.

Rollout Summary and Timeline

The December core update initiated on December 12 and reached completion within a short timeframe, wrapping up on December 18. Early indications suggest notable changes in search rankings, impacting websites across various sectors.

Initial Observations

Insights from SISTRIX reveal preliminary effects of the update on search rankings. Adjustments became noticeable by December 15, three days after the rollout commenced. Certain domains, such as pinterest.com and bbc.com, experienced growth in U.S. search rankings. Similarly, several UK-based e-commerce platforms reported positive trends.

On the other hand, some informational and e-commerce sites faced declines during this period. Interestingly, the timing of this update overlapped with significant domain migrations, including Twitter’s transition to x.com and Virgin Holidays’ integration into virginatlantic.com. While the connection between these shifts and the algorithm update remains unclear, such substantial changes can influence search visibility.

The broader implications of the update will become more evident in the coming weeks as data continues to evolve. Search Engine Journal plans to monitor the situation closely and provide further updates.

December Update Announcement

Google shared the news of the December update via a post on X (formerly Twitter), explaining that the rollout was expected to span approximately two weeks. This update follows the November core algorithm update, which concluded just a week earlier.

In its post, Google stated:

“The Dec. 2024 core update is rolling out, and we expect it will complete in two weeks. If you’re wondering why there’s a core update this month after one last month, we have different core systems we’re always improving. This past blog post explains more.”

The post linked to a November 2023 blog entry titled “A Q&A on Google Search updates,” offering insights into the frequency and purpose of these algorithm changes.

Multiple Ranking Systems in Action

Google emphasized its use of “multiple ranking systems” that serve distinct purposes, each undergoing continuous refinement to enhance the quality of search results. According to the company, it typically announces “notable” updates likely to produce significant changes in rankings.

Regarding the proximity of the November and December updates, Google explained that while it aims to space out impactful updates, simultaneous development of improvements sometimes necessitates back-to-back releases:

“If we have updates that can improve Search, that have been developed over the course of several months, we release them when they’re ready.”

Guidance for Website Owners

As with past core updates, Google has not disclosed specific details about the changes introduced in the December rollout. However, the company reiterated its long-standing advice: prioritize creating useful, reliable, and audience-focused content.

Website owners noticing shifts in traffic should consult Google’s update guidance available on the Search Status Dashboard. The dashboard also provides real-time information on update progress and offers an RSS feed for notifications.

A Year of Significant Algorithm Changes

The December 2024 core update concludes a year filled with multiple algorithm modifications. Google’s frequent updates underline its commitment to refining search quality and relevance.

As the dust settles, analysts will continue monitoring search traffic and rankings to better understand the full impact of the latest core update. Additional insights are expected in the weeks ahead.