Empty spaces in tablet packets: why they exist may surprise you

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• Why “Add as preferred source on Google” matters
• How to add a preferred source on desktop
• How to set preferred sources on mobile and apps
• What publishers should know to appear as a suggestion
  • Technical and editorial tips
• Effects on Discover, News, and Search results
• Privacy, control, and undoing choices
• Troubleshooting common issues
• Practical tips to manage your preferred sources

A small prompt on a page can change how you see news. Google now lets users mark outlets as preferred, and that choice nudges what appears in Google Discover, News, and Search. This guide explains what that button means, how to use it, and what publishers and readers should expect.

Why “Add as preferred source on Google” matters

Choosing a preferred source signals the outlets you trust to Google. Over time, this can shape the content you see in Google Discover and the News feed. It also helps Google prioritize sources when multiple outlets cover the same story.

• Personalized feeds: Your picks influence recommendations.
• Search relevance: Preferred outlets may appear higher for personalized queries.
• Transparency: It gives users control over which publishers get priority.

How to add a preferred source on desktop

On desktop, the option often appears as a small badge or floating box near article headers. The label might read “Add as preferred source on Google”. Click it to confirm.

1. Locate the floating badge or link beside the article.
2. Click the label once to add the outlet to your preferred list.
3. Google may show a confirmation message or a brief explanation.

How to set preferred sources on mobile and apps

Mobile placements vary by app and site layout. In Google apps, you can also manage settings inside the account or Discover preferences. The process is quick and reversible.

• Tap the badge next to article titles or in the article menu.
• Open Discover settings in the Google app to review choices.
• Remove or change selections any time via the same menus.

What publishers should know to appear as a suggestion

Publishing teams can optimize for visibility but cannot force placement. Google balances your signals with relevance and quality. Still, some best practices increase the chance of being chosen by users.

Technical and editorial tips

• Follow Google News content policies and technical specs.
• Use clear headlines and accurate metadata for articles.
• Keep pages mobile-friendly and fast to load.
• Publish original reporting and cite sources properly.

Effects on Discover, News, and Search results

Marking a source as preferred can nudge which snippets you see first. It does not guarantee exclusive placement. Google still weighs timeliness and relevance.

• Discover: Your feed will likely include more content from chosen outlets.
• News: Preferred outlets can gain prominence for stories you follow.
• Search: Personalized results may favor trusted sources for some queries.

Privacy, control, and undoing choices

All selections are tied to your Google account. You can remove preferences at any time. Google documents how these settings affect personalization.

• You control the list from account settings.
• Removing a source reverts personalization over time.
• Google keeps privacy policies and opt-out options accessible.

Troubleshooting common issues

If you don’t see the option, try a few quick checks first.

• Ensure you’re signed into the same Google account across devices.
• Clear cache or update the Google app or browser.
• Some publishers or regions may not show the badge yet.
• If behavior seems wrong, review Discover and News help pages.

Practical tips to manage your preferred sources

Think of this setting as a personalization tool. Use it to boost outlets you trust and to reduce noise.

• Create a balanced list of preferred sources across perspectives.
• Review choices periodically to reflect changing interests.
• Combine manual selection with Google’s algorithmic suggestions.