Attendees at the RootsTech conference in Salt Lake City gathered on March 5 and 6, 2026, to explore the intersection of technology and genealogy at the FamilySearch Global Tech Forum and the Global Innovation and Tech Forum. Key discussions centered on the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in family history tools, underscoring a commitment to both innovation and the dignity of individuals whose records are being used.
At the FamilySearch Global Tech Forum, leaders highlighted the introduction of AI-enhanced features aimed at improving user experience, while also addressing the critical need to uphold the privacy of individuals represented in genealogical records. “It’s reasoning applied to human connection,” said Ryan Parker, a product design engineer, reflecting on how AI can facilitate deeper connections within family history research.
Michelle Barber, a user experience designer, showcased new user-friendly design features that have emerged from these technological advancements. AI has significantly enhanced record documentation, allowing researchers to “remove barriers” and “enable human discovery,” according to Parker. Fellow product design engineer Bret Weekes emphasized the organization’s dedication to maintaining privacy and trust in handling users’ family histories.
Session attendees expressed enthusiasm for the new tools. Annette Carlson, visiting from Pittsburgh, remarked, “Boom, you’re connected to the tree,” while Jeannie Halversen noted her excitement about the capabilities of AI, which she said helped her discover “so many things.” The forum also introduced innovative AI features designed to expedite and simplify family research.
Robby Parker, a product manager, unveiled a “new change history” feature alongside an AI-guided merge function aimed at facilitating “wiser merge decisions.” Barber also introduced a “full text search” capability that utilizes AI to navigate the extensive database of AI-transcribed records. This feature has propelled the number of searchable images from 100 million in 2024 to an astounding 2.3 billion by 2026, thus making 20 billion names accessible for users.
Another breakthrough is the “simple search” function, which allows users to input entire queries in one field rather than being restricted to specific entries in designated boxes. Ian James, a product manager, noted that users particularly cherish the ability to add names to their family trees. The introduction of AI-powered tree-extending hints aims to enhance this experience by creating a virtual tree that prioritizes suggestions for users. “We’re just seeing the front of the wave,” James stated, alluding to the vast amounts of information now available for discovery.
Global Innovation and Tech Forum
On March 6, similar advancements were shared at the Global Innovation and Tech Forum, where representatives from various genealogy-focused companies discussed the role of AI in their operations. Brian Shirts from ConnectMyVariant highlighted the company’s focus on preventing disease through the identification of genetic risks by encouraging family discussions.
Richard Miller, founder of Goldie May, likened new AI technologies to a “super energetic intern,” suggesting that these tools significantly amplify the output of family history researchers. Laryn Brown, COO of Storied, showcased Newspaper Archives, which has transcribed 3 billion articles, enabling 500 million identities to be uncovered.
Dave Vance, representing FamilyTreeDNA, illustrated how their technology has traced parts of the human family tree back 200,000 years. John Crockett, marketing director at Ancestry, discussed their use of AI for handwriting recognition and resource tools that help to “fill in the gaps” in historical narratives.
Marissa Humphrey, CEO of LifeWeaver, emphasized the importance of user privacy while enabling individuals to combine digital information to create cohesive stories. Alon Ehrenfeld from MyHeritage presented the Scribe AI technology, which provides record suggestions, photo descriptions, and transcriptions, thereby enhancing user interaction with their family histories.
As the conference wrapped up, attendees reflected on the transformative potential of these technologies, with Nate Lloyd noting that advancements in genealogical software motivate him to revisit past research challenges. Another participant, Monica Elva Rogers from Idaho, expressed her belief that “the Lord is hastening His work” through the adoption of tools like AI. As these innovations continue to evolve, they are poised to further enrich the landscape of genealogical research.
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