Google has officially launched its “Preferred Sources” feature in Search, allowing users to personalize the news they see in Top Stories. Initially tested earlier this year, this feature enables users to select their favorite news outlets, ensuring stories from these sources appear more frequently. From local newspapers and trusted tech blogs to sports websites, any publisher producing relevant content can now be prioritized.
Currently available in the United States and India, Google plans to expand the feature to additional countries soon. Setting up Preferred Sources is simple: search for a news topic, tap the icon next to Top Stories, choose your preferred sources, refresh, and enjoy content tailored to your interests. Users can add unlimited sources, change them at any time, and previous selections from the testing phase will carry over automatically.
While the feature promises more relevant and high-quality news, experts warn against exclusively using preferred sources. Limiting exposure to alternative viewpoints may create “news bubbles,” reducing perspective diversity—especially in political reporting. Google’s update is a strong personalization tool, but occasional exploration beyond selected outlets is recommended for a more balanced view.
Alongside this update, Google Meet has introduced enhancements for spotlighting shared content, Google Messages received new features (with one known bug), and the Pixel 10 series and Pixel Watch 4 are set to launch on August 20. Preferred Sources helps users stay informed more efficiently.
