Influencer leaves baby alone in hotel room: apologizes after getting foot massage

Show summary Hide summary

• What “Add as preferred source” actually does
• Where this preference appears in Google
• Step-by-step: How to add a preferred source
  • From the Google app (Android & iOS)
  • Using Google Search on desktop or mobile web
  • Managing preferred sources
• Best practices for publishers who want to be chosen
• Common problems and how to fix them
• Privacy and personalization: what to know
• Quick answers to likely questions

If you want Google to prioritize a specific publisher or site in your Search, Discover, or News feed, the “Add as preferred source” option lets you do that. This simple control gives users more influence over what they see. It also creates a direct signal to Google about your interests, without changing how Google ranks content overall.

What “Add as preferred source” actually does

Choosing a preferred source tells Google you want content from that publisher shown more often when relevant. It does not guarantee the top spot in search results. Instead, it nudges personalization algorithms to favor that source for you.

• Personalization signal: The choice affects only your personalized results.
• Does not alter global ranking: Other users will not be impacted by your settings.
• Granular control: You can add multiple preferred sources or remove them anytime.

Where this preference appears in Google

The preferred source setting can influence several Google surfaces. Knowing where it applies helps you use it effectively.

• Google Search snippets and news boxes for personalized queries.
• Google Discover feed recommendations on mobile devices.
• Google News sections and topic pages when available.
• Some Google app modules that surface publisher content.

Step-by-step: How to add a preferred source

Exact steps vary by device and app. Below are the most common ways users add a preferred source to Google.

From the Google app (Android & iOS)

1. Open the Google app and search for the site or article you like.
2. Tap the source name or publisher label under the headline.
3. Select “Add as preferred source” from the options menu.
4. Confirm your choice if prompted.

Using Google Search on desktop or mobile web

1. Perform a search and find a result from your preferred publisher.
2. Click the publisher name to go to the site card or knowledge panel.
3. Choose “Add as preferred source” on the publisher card.
4. Refresh your results to see personalized changes over time.

Managing preferred sources

• Open the Google app and go to Settings → Your data in Search.
• Find the “Preferred sources” or “Manage interests” section.
• Remove or add publishers as you wish.
• Changes take effect gradually across devices linked to your account.

Best practices for publishers who want to be chosen

Publishers cannot force users to add them. But they can make themselves more appealing to earn that choice. Focus on clarity, trust, and discoverability.

• Clear branding: Use consistent publisher names and logos across pages.
• High-quality content: Publish original reporting and expert analysis.
• Structured data: Implement article schema to help Google identify content.
• Fast pages: Improve load time and mobile experience.
• Author transparency: Include bylines and author bios to build trust.

Common problems and how to fix them

Not seeing your preferred source appear right away is normal. Google integrates signals over time. Try these steps if you run into issues.

• Make sure you are signed into the same Google account on all devices.
• Clear cache or refresh the Google app to accelerate changes.
• If the publisher name is inconsistent, search for alternate versions of the site name.
• Remove and re-add the source if it does not show across surfaces.
• Check that the publisher has a clear attribution on the pages you visit.

Privacy and personalization: what to know

Adding a preferred source uses your account data to tailor content. Google links this choice to your account history and activity. You can always review or delete settings.

• Account-bound: Preferences follow your Google account, not the device.
• Reversible: Remove a source anytime from your settings.
• Limited scope: This control customizes only your feed and search personalization.

Quick answers to likely questions

• Will it change global search rankings? No. It affects only your personalized results.
• Can I add multiple sources? Yes. You can add several preferred publishers.
• How soon will I see changes? Effects may be immediate in some panels, but often take time.
• What if I can’t find the option? Update your Google app or try the desktop Search card.
• Can publishers request to be added? No. Users choose which sources they prefer.