Google officially rolled out its June 2025 core update on June 30th, and early signs of ranking volatility are beginning to surface. While it’s still early, fluctuations are gradually becoming more apparent and are expected to strengthen in the coming days. Historically, core updates take a few days to show widespread effects, and this time is no different. Although many SEO professionals haven’t noticed significant changes yet, SEO tracking tools are already noticing movement.

Notably, Google confirmed that this update will take three weeks to fully roll out, rather than the usual two-week timeframe. If your site hasn’t seen any major changes yet, don’t be surprised if they appear soon.

What Is a Core Update?

A core update represents a broad adjustment to Google’s ranking systems. These are not targeted updates; they don’t focus on spam, product reviews, or specific types of content. Instead, they aim to improve how Google surfaces helpful, high-quality content across the web.

Core updates can influence rankings across all industries and content categories, making it essential for all site owners, not just those in a specific category, to pay attention.

What You Should Monitor

As the update continues to roll out through July, here are the key performance areas to watch:

  • Ranking Fluctuations: Track your most important keywords daily and find any significant drops or gains.
  • Traffic Patterns: Be alert to any unexpected spikes or dips in organic traffic.
  • Google Search Console Insights: Monitor changes in impressions, clicks, and average position.
  • Competitor Movements: Keep an eye on SERP changes to spot broader trends.

Best Practices During the Rollout

Google advises against making major site changes while an update is still rolling out. Instead, follow these guidelines:

  • Document Everything: Maintain detailed records of ranking and traffic changes to support post-rollout analysis.
  • Continue Publishing Helpful Content: Focus on user-first content that reflects E-E-A-T principles (Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness).
  • Avoid Overreacting: Core updates often lead to temporary fluctuation. Wait until the rollout is complete before taking action.

Google releases multiple core updates each year. Their impacts vary; some sites experience sudden gains or losses, while others see slow, gradual changes. Once the rollout ends, Google will update its ranking release history to confirm completion.

In the meantime, continue focusing on valuable, purposeful content. With any luck, this update could bring a positive change, especially for creators who have aligned with Google’s quality expectations from past discussions and feedback sessions.

Stay observant, stay patient, and may the algorithm be in your favour.