Ancestry has updated its Origins DNA feature, giving members a refreshed look at the geographic regions represented in their DNA. The update includes new and expanded regions, improved reference populations, and refined estimates based on Ancestry’s growing DNA database. Don’t be surprised if your percentages—or even some of your regions—change. These results are estimates, not proof of where an ancestor was born or lived.

For genealogists, the most useful approach is to compare the updated Origins results with documented family history, DNA matches, and other evidence. Think of Origins as a clue that can suggest questions and research directions—not as the final answer.

Shown here is a screenshot showing my husband's latest estimate: half Swedish and (approximately) half Irish. Exactly what we'd expect! It will be interesting to compare the Celtic/Gaelic predictions by province to his documented paternal roots in Tipperary, Limerick, Roscommon and Mayo.