Google regularly updates its algorithms to enhance user experience and deliver more relevant content to users. In February 2026, Google rolled out an important Google Discover Core Update that aims to improve the quality, personalization, and overall relevance of content displayed in Google Discover feeds.
Unlike traditional Google search updates, this update mainly focuses on how content appears in Discover and how users interact with recommended articles. For businesses, marketers, and content creators, understanding this update is essential to maintain and grow Discover traffic. In this guide, we will explore what this update means, how it affects websites, and practical strategies to optimize content for Discover.
What is Google Discover?
Google Discover is a personalized content feed available within the Google app and on mobile devices. It displays articles, blog posts, and news content based on user interests, browsing history, and engagement patterns.
Unlike traditional search, users do not need to enter a query to find content. Instead, Google automatically suggests content that matches individual preferences. Over time, Google Discover has become a valuable organic traffic source for publishers, bloggers, and digital marketing agencies because it helps content reach users naturally.
Overview of Google Discover Core Update February 2026
The February 2026 Discover Core Update focuses on improving content quality and enhancing how Google recommends articles within Discover feeds. The rollout started in early February 2026 and is expected to expand globally in phases.
Key Goals of the Update
- Improve personalization in Discover feeds
- Promote high-quality and original content
- Reduce misleading or clickbait headlines
- Strengthen local and region-based content recommendations
- Enhance user engagement and satisfaction
This update mainly rewards websites that focus on delivering trustworthy and user-focused content.
How This Update Impacts Websites
The Discover Core Update can directly influence website traffic, particularly for sites that rely heavily on Discover visibility.
Positive Impact
Websites publishing original, informative, and user-friendly content may experience increased traffic and higher engagement rates.
Negative Impact
Websites using misleading headlines, duplicated content, or low-value articles may notice reduced Discover exposure.
Best Strategies to Optimize Content for Google Discover
To perform well after this update, website owners should focus on proven content optimization practices.
1. Create High-Quality and Original Content
Google continues to prioritize content that delivers real value to readers. Articles should provide meaningful insights, clear explanations, and practical solutions.
Best Practices
- Publish detailed and well-researched content
- Avoid copied or rephrased content
- Focus on solving real user problems
- Include examples, case studies, or real insights
High-quality content helps build credibility, improves engagement, and increases Discover visibility.
2. Focus on Strong and Clear Headlines
Headlines play a crucial role in Discover performance. Users often decide whether to open an article based on its title and featured image.
Tips for Writing Headlines
- Keep headlines informative and straightforward
- Avoid exaggerated or misleading claims
- Include primary keywords naturally
- Make titles engaging but accurate
Clear and balanced headlines help improve click-through rates while following Google’s content guidelines.
3. Use High-Quality Images
Visual content is one of the most important ranking factors for Discover. Articles that include attractive and relevant images are more likely to appear in Discover feeds.
Image Optimization Tips
- Use high-resolution images with at least 1200px width
- Add descriptive and relevant alt text
- Ensure visuals support the article topic
- Avoid generic or low-quality stock images
Quality visuals help increase user engagement and improve content understanding.
4. Improve Mobile Experience
Since most Discover users browse content through mobile devices, mobile optimization is essential.
Mobile Optimization Steps
- Use responsive and mobile-friendly design
- Improve page loading speed
- Optimize Core Web Vitals performance
- Maintain readable fonts and simple layouts
A smooth mobile experience improves user engagement and increases Discover performance.
5. Strengthen E-E-A-T Signals
Google emphasizes E-E-A-T, which stands for Experience, Expertise, Authoritativeness, and Trustworthiness. Websites that demonstrate these qualities often perform better.
How to Improve E-E-A-T
• Add detailed author profiles
• Provide credible references and data sources
• Maintain content accuracy and transparency
• Publish expert-level insights
Strong trust signals help improve both Discover visibility and overall SEO performance.
6. Maintain Content Freshness
Google Discover often favors fresh and trending content. Regular updates help maintain relevance and authority.
Content Freshness Tips
• Update outdated articles with new data
• Publish content related to current trends
• Monitor industry changes regularly
• Refresh visuals and headlines when required
Fresh content signals indicate that your website is active and reliable.
7. Focus on User Intent and Engagement
Discover promotes content that keeps users interested and engaged. Engagement signals like time spent on page, click-through rates, and bounce rates influence Discover performance.
Engagement Improvement Tips
• Use simple and easy-to-read writing style
• Break content into short paragraphs and bullet points
• Add internal links to related topics
• Include clear calls to action
Higher engagement helps improve Discover ranking opportunities.
Why Businesses Should Pay Attention to Google Discover
Google Discover provides businesses with a strong opportunity to generate organic traffic without relying solely on search queries. Companies that optimize content for Discover can:
• Increase brand awareness
• Improve audience engagement
• Generate steady organic traffic
• Build industry authority
For digital marketing agencies, Discover optimization has become an essential growth strategy.
The Future of Google Discover
Google continues to enhance Discover using artificial intelligence and user behavior analysis. Future updates are expected to place even greater importance on content quality, credibility, and user satisfaction.
Businesses that focus on long-term content value will likely benefit the most from upcoming Discover changes.
Conclusion
The Google Discover Core Update February 2026 reflects Google’s growing focus on high-quality, user-centered, and trustworthy content. Websites that prioritize originality, strong visuals, mobile optimization, and meaningful user engagement are more likely to gain Discover visibility.
Businesses that adapt to these evolving content standards can use Google Discover as a powerful channel for long-term organic growth and brand visibility.
Need Help Optimizing Your Website for Google Discover?
At DigiBirds360, we specialize in SEO, content marketing, and digital growth strategies that help businesses improve their search and Discover performance. Our team focuses on creating high-quality content that attracts organic traffic and strengthens brand authority.
Contact DigiBirds360 today to take your website performance to the next level and stay competitive in the digital marketing landscape.
Mohit Singh
Published on February 13, 2026
