You may notice that some of your DNA match relationship labels have changed.
We're updating how we predict certain close family relationships to provide more precise and accurate relationship predictions. As our science improves and our database grows, we continue to refine how we estimate relationships between DNA matches.
What's changing
Previously, all match relationship predictions were based primarily on how much DNA you share with a match.
Now, we are using a more advanced approach that looks at how you and your match share DNA with each other and with the matches you share in common. We use this network of DNA matches to identify patterns and better understand how people are connected.
As a result, we can now tell you more precisely what the relationship is between you and your match. You may now notice that some of your DNA matches have a more specific relationship label than they did before.
Relationships affected
This update affects these relationships:
- Grandparent or grandchild
- Aunt, uncle, niece, or nephew
- Half siblings
- First cousins
- Great-aunt or -uncle or great-niece or -nephew
- Great-grandparent or great-grandchild
Closer relationships (like parent/child) and more distant relationships (like 2nd cousins) were not affected by this update.
Why some relationship predictions changed
A change doesn't mean your previous result was wrong. Relationship predictions are determined based on the information available at the time. As we develop better models and gain access to more data, we can make more informed predictions.
In some cases, a relationship that was previously labeled broadly may now be assigned a more specific relationship label.
Accuracy
One of Ancestry's strengths is the size of our DNA network—the number of people who have taken AncestryDNA tests.
Our updated models can learn from patterns across millions of DNA connections, helping us better understand how close relatives are related. By analyzing a broader network of matches, we can make more informed predictions than were previously possible.
Frequently asked questions
Was the old relationship prediction incorrect?
Not necessarily. Relationship predictions are estimates based on available information. As our models improve, we can provide more accurate and precise relationship labels.
Why can't you always tell me the exact relationship?
Many different family relationships can share similar amounts of DNA. Even with advanced models, there are situations where multiple relationships remain possible. When that happens, we'll continue to show the most likely relationship options.
Can I trust my new relationship prediction?
The updated prediction reflects our latest relationship model and incorporates more information than previous versions. However, all relationship predictions should be considered estimates rather than definitive conclusions.
Does testing more family members help?
Yes. When close family members take DNA tests, it can provide additional context that helps us better understand how people in your family are connected. In many cases, having parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, or cousins in your DNA network can improve relationship predictions and family tree discoveries.
Will I still see multiple possible relationships?
Yes. DNA alone cannot always determine a single relationship with complete certainty. When multiple relationships remain possible, we'll continue to show the most likely options. In some cases, you may also see information about the relative confidence of different relationship possibilities.