MyHeritage DNA now utilizes Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) through Ultima Genomics technology. While our previous "GSA chip" examined approximately 700,000 specific markers (SNPs), WGS reads nearly all of your DNA - about 3 billion base pairs. This shift impacts raw DNA data files and the algorithms used for phasing and imputation.
Below are answers to common questions on how this technological shift may affect your experience.
If my DNA is processed by MyHeritage using Whole Genome Sequencing, will I notice changes in my results immediately?
Think of WGS as the foundation for future capabilities. While you may notice slight variations in your results initially, the primary benefit of WGS is the depth of data it provides for future analysis. As our database of WGS kits grows, we will be able to refine our matching and ethnicity models. Please keep in mind that these technical updates are gradual, and your results may not change significantly right away.
That’s because MyHeritage first needs to grow a large database of DNA kits processed with WGS. Once that happens, all kits in the database will be re-phased, re-imputed, and re-matched—and at that point, the difference will be noticeable.
What are the future benefits of WGS?
By sequencing the entire genome, we are building a more comprehensive database. Over time, this will allow us to update our matching and ethnicity algorithms to utilize this increased data. Our goal is to provide a more detailed view of your genetic heritage and matches as the technology and our models evolve.
Why do my results (Matches/Ethnicity) look different than they did before WGS?
It is natural to wonder why your DNA results might change. If you notice that your ethnicity percentages have shifted slightly or your list of DNA matches has changed, it is due to the change in sequencing technology:
Different Markers: WGS and the older "array" technology look at different sets of SNPs (genetic markers), which impacts the raw DNA data file.
New Algorithms: The move to WGS changes the quality of the genome "reads," which affects the phasing and imputation algorithms we use to calculate your results.
Technical Shift: Because different algorithms produce different raw data files, your results may shift slightly. This is a technical adjustment as we move to a more detailed way of reading your DNA; it does not mean your actual genetic makeup has changed
To understand this, imagine our new technology as an upgrade in resolution like in the analogy below.
Think of it as a road map vs. a satellite view:
Your original results were like a high-quality road map (the GSA chip). It showed the main streets and major landmarks clearly. Our new technology is like switching to a high-resolution satellite view (WGS).
The city itself (your DNA) hasn't changed, but the satellite sees alleys, backyard trees, and house numbers that the road map missed. Because WGS "sees" so much more detail, our algorithms can now categorize certain genetic segments more precisely. This leads to slight technical adjustments in your ethnicity percentages or match confidence, even though your underlying genetic heritage remains the same, the same way you still live in the same neighbourhood in the same city.
How do I know if my DNA kit was processed with WGS?
Automatic Processing: From January 2026, all new samples sent to the lab are automatically processed with WGS.
Verification: You can check if your sample was processed with WGS by looking at the header of your downloaded DNA file. Below is an example of the header of a GSA processed file, meaning processed with the old technology.
Do I need to take another test because of this change?
No. Your existing results remain fully functional, and you will continue to receive new DNA matches and updates as always.
You only need to take a new test if you specifically want your DNA analyzed using WGS technology to capture the full 3 billion base pairs for advanced research in the future and you had your DNA sample processed before January 2026. If your sample was processed in January 2026 or after, your sample was automatically processed with WGS. (Please note the exception under the section 'DNA Health Reports and WGS' in this article)
The core features of your heritage report - such as your Ethnicity Estimate and DNA Matches - will remain the same whether you use the GSA chip or WGS.
I received my MyHeritage DNA results before January 2026. Will my results be reprocessed with WGS?
No. Kits already processed with older technology will not be reprocessed. However, your DNA will continue to be matched against new users whose DNA samples wereprocessed with WGS. If you want to have your DNA processed with WGS, you need to order a new MyHeritage DNA kit. You can then manage both of your kits, the one processed with WGS and the one processed with GS, under the same account.
Genomic Data Downloads (CRAM Files)
Availability: Our team is working hard on supporting CRAM downloads.
File Types: WGS users will have access to both a standard raw data file (CSV/TXT) for third-party tools and, once available, a much larger CRAM file containing the full genomic sequence at no extra cost.
Are WGS results "better" than my old results?
The genealogy results (Ethnicity Estimate, Genetic Groups, and DNA Matches) provided by WGS today are as good as the results we provided for those genotyped using the GSA chip. The transition to WGS allows us to deepen our research and improve our models in the future. We plan to offer new features and enhancements facilitated by WGS, but these take time to develop and you should not expect to receive them immediately.
DNA Health Reports and WGS
DNA Health reports currently use "GSA chip" technology and are not compatible with WGS.
Recommended Order: If you want WGS for heritage results, wait for your heritage results (WGS) to be ready, then upgrade to Health. This will require a new kit processed via GSA.
Already Upgraded: If you upgraded to Health before your kit reached the lab, both results will use the older GSA technology. If you still want WGS for heritage results in this case, you will need a new kit.
Click here for a Technology Comparison: GSA Chip vs. WGS
Click here for a Technology Comparison: GSA Chip vs. WGS
Feature | GSA Chip (Previous) | WGS (Current) |
Markers Read | ~700,000 specific SNPs | ~3 Billion base pairs (Entire Genome) |
Ancestry Features | Full Ethnicity & Matches | Full Ethnicity & Matches |
Health Compatibility | Yes | No (Requires GSA processing) |
Raw Data File | Standard (CSV/TXT) | Comprehensive (Includes CRAM) |
Results Basis | Targeted "snapshots" | High-resolution "map" |
Privacy and Data Control
Your privacy remains our top priority:
Security: All data is encrypted and stored on secure servers.
Policy: MyHeritage does not sell or license genetic data and strictly prohibits use by law enforcement.
Ownership: You own your data and can delete your results or request the destruction of physical samples at any time via the "Manage DNA kits" page. Please refer to the instructions in our FAQ here.
For more information about the privacy options available for your DNA data please click here.
You can find more details about the upgrade to Whole Genome Sequencing in our blog post: MyHeritage Upgrades Its DNA Tests to Whole Genome Sequencing.