How to use Google’s new Preferred Sources feature in Search

Google

Google has introduced a new feature in Search called Preferred Sources for users in India and the US. It lets you choose your favourite news websites so you can see more stories from them in your search results. If you want to personalise your news feed on Google, here’s how to get started.

1. Search for a topic in the news

Type in any topic that is currently making headlines. Look for the Top Stories section in your search results.

2. Find the Preferred Sources icon

Next to the Top Stories header, you will see a small icon. Click on it to open the Preferred Sources menu.

3. Choose your favourite websites

In the menu, you can search for the websites you like most. This could be a news outlet, sports blog, or local newspaper. Select the ones you want to follow.

4. Refresh your search results

After selecting your preferred sources, refresh the page. You should start seeing more stories from your chosen websites in Top Stories.

5. Check the “From your sources” section

Apart from appearing more often in Top Stories, articles from your selected sites will also show up in a special “From your sources” section in your search results.

6. Manage your list anytime

You can add, remove, or change your preferred sources whenever you want. Google says you can select as many as you like, and early testers often chose four or more.

7. Already using Google Labs?

If you previously set up preferred sources in Google Labs, your list will be carried over automatically, so you do not need to set it up again.

Tip for publishers: If you run a website, you can encourage your audience to add your site to their Preferred Sources list. Google has a help center with guidance on how to do this.

With Preferred Sources, you can make sure your trusted news sites get more visibility in your search results, while still seeing stories from other outlets for a balanced view.