Google Analytics 4 (GA4) data isn’t updated in real-time; instead, it’s processed in near real-time with varying degrees of finalisation, as of December 2025. The speed of data availability depends on the type of metric and the reporting view you’re accessing.

Currently, GA4 employs a tiered processing system. ‘Realtime’ reports show data within seconds, but this is a sample and isn’t for definitive analysis. Standard reports typically show data with a delay of between 24 and 48 hours. However, GA4 now includes ‘Intraday’ reports, available to all Australian GA4 properties, which provide more granular data with a shorter delay – usually within a few hours – for key metrics like users and events. Data discrepancies between reports are normal due to differing processing times and attribution models. GA4’s data processing infrastructure is hosted on Google Cloud regions including Sydney, ensuring data residency compliance for Australian businesses. In 2026, Google is expected to further refine intraday reporting capabilities based on user feedback collected throughout 2025. Announced for 2027 is a planned shift towards more consistent intraday data availability across all standard reports.

Essentially, GA4 uses a staged processing system to balance speed and accuracy, delivering data with varying latencies depending on the report type and level of detail.