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• How to add a preferred source on Google: quick overview
• Step-by-step: using the Google mobile app
• Setting preferences in Google News and Discover
• Desktop and Chrome: what to expect
• Why adding a preferred source matters
• What publishers should do to become a preferred source
• Troubleshooting: when the add option is missing
• Managing and removing preferred sources
• Privacy and control: what Google uses
• Best practices for readers and news consumers
• Additional tips for publishers to increase follow rates

Choosing which outlets shape your news feed can change how you see the world. Google lets you prioritize specific publishers so their stories show up more often in Search, Discover, and Google News. This guide explains how to add a preferred source, when it helps, and what publishers can do to become a go-to source.

How to add a preferred source on Google: quick overview

Google’s ecosystem offers several ways to signal preference for a publisher. The exact option depends on whether you use the Google app, Google News, or Discover. Below are concise, practical steps you can follow.

Step-by-step: using the Google mobile app

1. Open the Google app on your phone.
2. Search for an article or publisher you want to prioritize.
3. Tap the three-dot menu near an article or site result.
4. Choose options like Follow, More from this source, or Add as preferred, depending on the interface.
5. Confirm your choice. The app will show more content from that publisher in Discover and related search cards.

Setting preferences in Google News and Discover

Google News offers stronger controls for newsfeeds. Discover is driven by interest signals and publisher preferences.

• In Google News, find a publisher page and tap Follow to prioritize that outlet.
• In Discover, use the article menu to tell Google you want more (or less) from that site.
• Adjust your Interests or Manage Sources in News settings to refine what you see.

Desktop and Chrome: what to expect

Some features that appear on mobile are limited on desktop. Still, you can influence results.

• Use news.google.com to follow publishers on desktop.
• Manage followed sources in Google News settings for web.
• Signed-in account preferences sync across devices when you use the same Google account.

Why adding a preferred source matters

Choosing a preferred source changes the balance of what Google surfaces in your feed. Here are common benefits:

• More relevant reporting: You see more coverage from outlets you trust.
• Faster updates: Preferred publishers’ articles appear earlier in Discover and News.
• Personalized results: Search and news cards reflect your trusted sources.

What publishers should do to become a preferred source

For publishers aiming to be selected by readers, the focus should be on trust and discoverability.

• Register with the Google Publisher Center and keep your profile updated.
• Use clear site branding and consistent URLs so Google recognizes your content.
• Publish accurate, original reporting and follow Google’s news content policies.
• Implement structured data and AMP or fast mobile pages to improve visibility.
• Encourage readers to follow your site in Google News and to add you as a preferred source.

Troubleshooting: when the add option is missing

Sometimes the button or menu item is not visible. Try these steps.

• Sign in to the same Google account across devices.
• Update the Google app or Google News to the latest version.
• Clear app cache or reload the News web page.
• Check region settings; some features roll out regionally.
• If the publisher is new, wait — indexing and verification can take time.

Managing and removing preferred sources

You can change your preferences any time from Google News or account settings.

• Open Google News, go to Following, and remove sites you no longer want.
• In the Google app, revisit the publisher menu and choose to unfollow.
• Changes usually sync across your devices within minutes.

Privacy and control: what Google uses

Google blends your explicit follows with behavior signals. Here’s what to know:

• Your followed sources are tied to your Google account.
• Google combines follows with browsing history and engagement to personalize feeds.
• If you want less personalization, use guest mode or adjust ad and activity settings in your account.

Best practices for readers and news consumers

• Follow a diverse mix of publishers to avoid echo chambers.
• Review and update your followed sources quarterly.
• Use the menu on stories to signal if you want less or more from a publisher.
• Report misinformation through the article menu when needed.

Additional tips for publishers to increase follow rates

Small changes can lead to more readers adding you as a preferred source.

• Use clear author bylines and publishing dates for transparency.
• Promote your Google News presence on your site and social channels.
• Deliver timely, niche, or investigative content that builds loyalty.
• Encourage subscribers to follow you in the News app with CTAs.