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- How the “preferred source” feature works on Google
- Step-by-step: Add a preferred source from your device
- What to expect after you add a preferred source
- Why you might not see the option
- Quick fixes when the option is missing
- Advice for publishers who want users to add them
- Technical checklist for publisher readiness
- Monitoring and retaining preferred source status
- Privacy and personalization controls users should know
If you want faster access to news from a site you trust, Google’s “Add as preferred source” tool can push that outlet higher in your search and Discover results. The feature is designed to give users control over what sources they see first. Below you’ll find a clear, user-focused guide for adding a preferred source, plus publisher tips and troubleshooting advice to improve your chances of being chosen.
How the “preferred source” feature works on Google
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Google uses a mix of personalization, relevance, and source signals to decide which outlets appear for individual users. When you mark a source as preferred, Google tries to show its stories more prominently in Search, Google News, and Discover. This does not guarantee exclusive placement, but it does tilt results toward your selection.
- Personalization: Your search history and settings influence visibility.
- Source signals: Domain authority, content quality, and structured data matter.
- Regional availability: The feature can differ by country and platform.
Step-by-step: Add a preferred source from your device
On mobile (Google app or Google News)
- Open the Google app or Google News while signed into your Google account.
- Find an article from the outlet you want to prefer.
- Tap the three-dot menu near the article or the source name.
- Select the option labeled “Add as preferred source” or similar.
- Confirm the choice when prompted. Your account settings will update.
On desktop (Search or News web)
- Perform a search or open Google News in your browser.
- Locate an article or the source card in the results.
- Click the menu or source controls and choose “Add as preferred source” if available.
- Sign in to your Google account if asked to complete the preference.
What to expect after you add a preferred source
- Stories from that outlet may appear more often in your personalized feed.
- You may still see competing coverage for balance and context.
- Preferences sync across signed-in devices, depending on settings.
- Google may suggest related sources to broaden coverage.
Why you might not see the option
Not every user sees the same menus. If you can’t add a preferred source, several factors might be at play.
- Region limits: The feature might not be released in your country.
- Account or personalization settings: You must be signed in and allow personalized results.
- Platform differences: The mobile app often has features missing on desktop.
- Source eligibility: Some publishers aren’t surfaced due to policy or technical reasons.
Quick fixes when the option is missing
- Sign into your Google account and refresh the app or page.
- Enable personalization in your Google account settings.
- Clear app cache or browser cookies and try again.
- Update the Google app to the latest version.
- Use the Google News app if the Search interface lacks the control.
Advice for publishers who want users to add them
Publishers can improve their chances of being chosen as a preferred source by strengthening trust and discoverability.
- Verify in Google Publisher Center: Claim and maintain your profile.
- Use structured data: Implement article schema and logo markup.
- Publish original reporting: Exclusive, well-sourced content increases authority.
- Maintain site performance: Fast, mobile-friendly, and secure sites rank better.
- Follow Google policies: Avoid misleading practices and removed content risks.
Technical checklist for publisher readiness
- HTTPS enabled across the site.
- Valid structured data for articles and authors.
- Up-to-date sitemap submitted to Google Search Console.
- Consistent branding and a clear site logo.
- Author bylines and contact information visible.
Monitoring and retaining preferred source status
Once users start adding you, monitor traffic and feedback to retain visibility. High churn or poor content quality can reduce prominence over time.
- Track referral traffic in analytics and monitor search impressions.
- Respond to user feedback and fix technical issues quickly.
- Keep publishing timely, accurate stories to sustain trust.
Privacy and personalization controls users should know
Your choices affect how Google personalizes content. You can always adjust privacy and personalization settings in your Google account to control what feeds show and how preferences apply.
- Manage ad and content personalization in account settings.
- Review your My Activity to see personalization influences.
- Remove a preferred source at any time from the same menu.
