What is the Preferred Sources Feature?

Google has added a Preferred Sources option to the Top Stories section of its search results. The tool allows users to customize which websites show up most often in the news carousel that appears above regular search listings. At launch, the feature is live only in the United States and India.

How to Set Up Preferred Sources

To begin, a user searches for a tech‑related news topic. The Top Stories box appears at the top of the results page, and a small star icon appears to the right of the banner. Clicking the icon opens the Preferred Sources screen. On that screen, users can type the name of a site—such as TechRadar—into a search box and then check a box next to the site’s name to add it to their list. After selecting the desired sites, the user clicks a Reload Results button, and the Top Stories carousel refreshes to reflect the new preferences.

Benefits for Readers

The feature gives readers more control over the sources that appear in their news feed, ensuring that trusted outlets appear more frequently. Google notes that this can help users stay on top of the latest tech news without having to sift through less familiar sites. The company also suggests that users follow their favorite outlets on Google News, as well as on platforms such as TikTok and WhatsApp, for additional updates.

Implications for Content Publishers

Publishers that are added as Preferred Sources may see increased visibility in search‑related news carousels. The ability to be highlighted in Top Stories could drive more traffic to their sites, especially for those that specialize in tech coverage. The feature therefore creates a new avenue for publishers to reach audiences who actively search for technology‑related information.

Future Outlook

While the Preferred Sources option is currently limited to two countries, Google’s rollout may expand to additional regions based on user feedback and adoption rates. The company’s emphasis on giving users fine‑tuned control over news sources suggests a broader strategy to personalize search experiences and enhance the relevance of top‑story content.

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