BREAKING GENELALOGY NEWS: AncestryDNA Introduces Custom Clusters in Pro Tools
AncestryDNA has just released an exciting new feature for Pro Tool users—Custom Clusters. This enhancement allows researchers to create their own DNA match clusters based on specific branches of their family tree.
Previously, Ancestry’s automatic clusters grouped matches only down to about 65 centimorgans (cM). With this update, genealogists can now generate clusters that include matches as low as 20 cM, giving far more flexibility to explore those smaller but still meaningful DNA connections.
Here’s how it works: users can select up to four DNA matches—ideally those known to be on a specific ancestral line—and use them as anchors to generate a custom cluster. The system then identifies and groups other shared matches who also connect to that branch. Each cluster can be named and adjusted by centimorgan range, allowing for highly targeted analysis.
This is a powerful step forward for family historians working to identify unknown ancestors or confirm lineages. Instead of relying solely on Ancestry’s automated clustering, researchers can now take control and build customized genetic networks tailored to their research questions.
Stay tuned—this feature will take some experimentation to master, but it’s an exciting new tool for serious DNA sleuths!
Use genealogical research strategies to locate individuals with common names in historical records. Finding specific ancestors when names are common presents a unique challenge for family historians. This guide demonstrates...
Academy members – Use this link below to watch the replay of Connie’s presentation from September 2, 2026 on Grouping DNA Matches on Ancestry.com https://genealogytv.org/courses/2026-academy-exclusive-lessons/lessons/grouping-dna-matches-on-ancestry-com/
