Google rolls out its February 2026 Discover core update in the U.S. and puts the rest of the world on alert

Google has released its first algorithm update of 2026, which is not a general core update, but focuses exclusively on the system powering its Discover section. Its purpose is to enhance the experience of users who utilize this news and content feed, while simultaneously maintaining the personalization filters.

The Google Discover core update from February 2026 was activated yesterday, February 5, for United States English-language accounts. Regarding the rest of the world, Google has confirmed that the update will be rolled out to all other languages and countries in the coming months. Therefore, in Spain, we shall have to wait to observe its effects. The good news is that we have been informed in advance, and we may prepare accordingly.

What the February 2026 Discover Core Update entails

Discover is a personalized feed through which users can access a selection of news items based on their interests; therefore, content curation becomes particularly relevant. In this context, Google has refined its algorithm to better identify the most useful content and websites with the greatest knowledge and expertise when addressing each subject.

Specifically, the February 2026 Discover core update will help ensure that Google’s systems:

• Display for individuals more relevant local content from websites in their own country.
• Reduce sensationalist and clickbait content.
• Select deeper, original, and useful content from websites with expertise in the specific field.

Concerning how Google defines “expertise”, the company considers that it is demonstrated by having high-quality content and by consistently addressing the particular subject. “Therefore, whether a website specializes in several areas or focuses on a single topic, it has the same opportunities to appear in Discover. For instance, a local news website with a dedicated gardening section may possess strong expertise in gardening, even if it covers other topics as well. In contrast, a movie review website that only publishes a single article about gardening would likely not be recognized as such,” explains Google.

Of course, personalization will remain a central pillar of Discover, and each user’s content and source preferences will be preserved. However, the platform’s improved ability to select valuable content will provide an even more refined experience.

Best practices to help your content appear in discover

On its Discover help page, Google shares a series of recommendations for SEO professionals and website owners seeking to position their content within this personalized section. These include the following:

• Use headlines that capture the essence of the content and avoid resorting to clickbait.
• Employ attractive, high-quality, and large images. It is recommended that large images be at least 1200 pixels wide and be implemented with the max-image-preview:large setting or through AMP.
• Do not use tactics to artificially increase engagement, such as including misleading or exaggerated information in the areas of your content that are displayed first (title, snippets, or images), or hiding essential information necessary to understand the topic of the content.
• Do not manipulate users to interact with a page by encouraging morbid curiosity or by including content designed merely to provoke or excite them.
• Publish content on timely and noteworthy topics, well written and offering unique information.

Photo: generated with Nano Banana Pro (Gemini)