Google’s December 2025 core update is officially complete. The rollout took 18 days and 2 hours, starting on December 11, 2025, at 12:25 pm ET and finishing on December 29, 2025, at 2:05 pm ET. Google confirmed the update, stating: “Google December 2025 core update rollout is now complete.”
This marks the third core update of 2025, following the March and June updates, along with the August 2025 spam update. While many expected more frequent core updates this year, Google has reiterated that additional updates will continue in the future.
Key Facts About the December 2025 Core Update
- Name: Google December 2025 Broad Core Update
- Launch Date: December 11, 2025, 12:25 pm ET
- Completion Date: December 29, 2025, 2:05 pm ET
- Scope: All types of content are impacted
- Penalty: This is not a penalty; it rewards high-quality content
- Global Impact: Affects all regions and languages
- Features Affected: Google Discover, featured snippets, and other search features
- Recovery Advice: Sites negatively impacted should review content and follow Google’s core update guidance
- Refreshes: Periodic refreshes may occur, sometimes without announcements
What You Need to Know
Google described this update as a “regular update designed to better surface relevant, satisfying content for searchers from all types of sites.” The update focused on improving the core ranking systems rather than penalizing specific websites.
Volatility During the Update
The December 2025 update showed unusual volatility:
- Initial fluctuations were observed around December 13th
- Activity spiked again on December 20th, especially on a Saturday
- By the end of the month, signals calmed significantly
When asked about the final status, Google’s John Mueller noted that the timing of core updates is usually more closely monitored at the start rather than the finish, explaining why some tools may have indicated ongoing changes.
What This Means for Website Owners
If your site experienced ranking changes during this period:
- Review your content quality
- Ensure it satisfies user intent
- Consider improving areas highlighted in Google’s core update guidance
Remember, core updates reward great content rather than penalize sites, so focus on delivering value to your audience.
Stay Updated on Google Algorithm Changes
Keeping your site aligned with Google’s core updates is essential for maintaining visibility in search results. Regular audits, content improvements, and staying informed about future updates are key strategies for SEO success.
If you’re looking to stay ahead of Google’s ever-changing search landscape, SEO Guru NYC is here to help. As leading SEO consultants in New York, we specialize in analyzing core updates like the December 2025 rollout and understanding how they impact your website’s performance. Our team works closely with businesses to ensure their content aligns with Google’s standards, improving visibility, rankings, and overall search performance.
Take the guesswork out of Google updates and let us help your business thrive online. Contact us today to see how our team of can transform your website’s search performance and keep you competitive in a constantly evolving digital landscape.
