MyHeritage Changes Policy on DNA Uploads

MyHeritage announced that they will be changing their policy regarding DNA uploads. This change will effect some of what was previously offered for free. Full details will be released later. MyHeritage wrote in a blog post:

“As of December 1, 2018, our policy regarding DNA uploads will change: DNA Matching will remain free for uploaded DNA data, but unlocking additional DNA features (for example, ethnicity estimate, chromosome browser, and some others) will require an extra payment for DNA files uploaded after this date. We will announce the full details of the new policy once it is finalized, closer to December 1st. All DNA data that was uploaded to MyHeritage in the past, and all DNA data that is uploaded now and prior to December 1, 2018, will continue to enjoy full access to all DNA features for free. These uploads will be grandfathered in and will remain free.”

Those who are interested in uploading their DNA data to MyHeritage should not hesitate to do so. Anyone who uploads their DNA data before December 1, 2018, will receive (and continue to be able to access) the ethnicity estimate, chromosome browser, and other features for free. Those who miss the deadline will have to pay an extra fee for some features.

MyHeritage also announced that they support the upload of 23andMe v5 and Living DNA data files, in addition to supporting all major DNA testing services, including Ancestry, 23andMe (prior to v5) and Family Tree DNA (Family Finder).

That being said, MyHeritage notes that they are currently processing a large backlog of 23andMe v5 kits that have been uploaded to them in the past. Those results will be rolled out to users soon.

If you manage additional DNA kits for some of your relatives, and have their permission, you can upload their DNA data to MyHeritage, too. MyHeritage will let you associate the data with the respective individuals on your family tree.

Related Articles at FamilyTree.com:

* MyHeritage Improved their One-To-Many Chromosome Browser

* MyHeritage Added New Features to it’s Mobile App

* MyHeritage Added Exclusive Collection of Historical Records