Google Prioritizes ‘Preferred Sources’ in Top Stories Search Results
▼ Summary
– Google introduced a new “Preferred Sources” feature allowing users to prioritize specific news outlets in Top Stories, launching first in the U.S. and India.
– Users can select preferred outlets via a settings icon next to the Top Stories header, with selections carrying over from previous Labs experiments if applicable.
– The feature includes a “From your sources” section while maintaining a mix of other outlets to ensure diverse perspectives in search results.
– Early testing showed over half of participants chose four or more sources, indicating a preference for trusted outlets alongside varied coverage.
– Publishers can leverage this feature to boost visibility among loyal readers by encouraging them to add their site as a preferred source.
Google is introducing a new feature that allows users to customize their news feed by selecting preferred publishers in search results. The tool, now available in the U.S. and India for English-language searches, gives readers more control over which outlets appear prominently in Top Stories.
With Preferred Sources, users can handpick one or multiple publications they trust. When these outlets publish fresh, relevant content, their stories will surface more frequently in search results. A dedicated section labeled “From your sources” will also appear, though Google emphasizes the feed will continue displaying a diverse mix of reporting from other publishers.
Setting up Preferred Sources is straightforward: Search for a trending topic, tap the icon next to the Top Stories header, and select preferred outlets. Changes take effect immediately, and choices can be adjusted anytime. Early testers through Google Labs often chose four or more sources, indicating users appreciate both variety and trusted perspectives.
For publishers, this update presents a valuable opportunity to deepen reader engagement. Loyal audiences who add a publication as a preferred source will see its content more often when it aligns with their searches. News organizations can guide subscribers on enabling the feature, potentially boosting visibility among their core readership.
Google reassures that algorithmic ranking factors remain intact, and preferred outlets only gain prominence when publishing timely, high-quality content. This balances personalization with editorial diversity, ensuring users don’t miss broader perspectives.
The move reflects Google’s broader strategy to enhance search customization while maintaining balanced news exposure. For publishers, it underscores the importance of cultivating dedicated followers, whether through newsletters, subscriptions, or consistent coverage, to maximize reach in an evolving search landscape.
(Source: Search Engine Journal)
