May 21, 2026
Google has announced the second core update of the year - the May 2026 core update.
This is a broad core update designed to ‘better surface relevant, satisfying content for searchers from all types of sites’, and is expected to take up to two weeks to complete.
Google releases these major algorithm updates several times throughout the year in an attempt to create a better search experience for its users. As usual, they haven’t provided any specific details, although we can expect to see high volatility in the SERPs both during and after the rollout.
Many SEO professionals suspected a core update would be dropping soon as volatility has been notably high recently.
Barry Schwartz reported intense volatility just last week:
Unsurprisingly, no one seems thrilled about this core update. Many people have responded negatively to Google Search Central’s post about the update.
Frank Jones commented:
Melle also replied:
This is the second core update and fourth algorithm update of the year, following the February 2026 Discover core update, the March 2026 spam update, and the March 2026 core update.
Here’s a timeline of core updates over the last few years:
The general guidelines are to focus on creating helpful content and following E.E.A.T guidelines to the best of your ability. You may notice some ranking changes over the next few weeks but it’s important to bear in mind that these may not be permanent changes. Wait a little while after the rollout has finished before examining your analytics and making any moves.
If you are worried about how this update may affect your site, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us today.
