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If you want Google to favor a newsroom or website in your feed and search results, you can instruct the platform to treat that outlet as a preferred source. The option changes what appears in Google Search, Google Discover, and Google News. Below are clear steps and practical tips to add a preferred source and to make the choice work for both readers and publishers.
Why choose a preferred source on Google
Selecting a preferred source tells Google’s systems which outlets you trust. That influences the stories shown in Google Discover and the News tab. It can also nudge search results to show content from that outlet more prominently for your account.
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- Personalized results: Your feed will reflect outlets you trust.
- Faster access: Articles from preferred sources can surface sooner.
- Better relevance: Google weighs your preferences when ranking content.
How to add a preferred source — step-by-step
The exact UI can vary by device and app version. These steps cover the common paths across Search, Discover, and Google News.
- Open the Google app, Google Search, or Google News while signed in to your account.
- Find an article or card from the outlet you want to prefer.
- Tap the menu icon (three dots) next to the story or result.
- Choose the option similar to “Add as preferred source” or “Follow this source.”
- Confirm the selection if prompted. Your preference syncs to your Google account.
Where your choice appears across Google
Google Discover
Preferred outlets influence the stories presented in Discover cards on mobile. Google uses the setting as a signal to prioritize content from that source.
Google News
In the News tab, preferred sources may appear in the “For you” feed and in topic pages you follow.
Search results
Your preference is one of many signals that can nudge search snippets and top stories toward favored outlets.
Tips for publishers to become a preferred source
Newsrooms that want more users to select them should focus on trust and discoverability.
- Use clear publisher branding across articles.
- Publish accurate, timely reporting that demonstrates expertise and trustworthiness.
- Implement structured data so Google understands article metadata.
- Ensure mobile-first performance and fast page loads.
- Keep author bylines and editorial contact info visible.
Troubleshooting: option missing or not working
If you cannot add a preferred source, try these fixes.
- Update the Google app or your browser to the latest version.
- Sign in with the Google account you use on mobile and desktop.
- Clear app cache or reload the News feed to refresh controls.
- Check regional availability. Some preferences may not show in all countries.
- Look for alternative actions, like “Follow” or “See more stories from” links.
Manage and change your preferences anytime
You can review and remove preferred sources from your Google account settings. Open the News or Discover controls, locate the list of saved sources, and edit selections. Changing preferences updates what you see across devices.
