“In today’s world, getting your news from trusted outlets matters more than ever—not just from the first results on a Google search. That’s why Google has introduced a new Preferred Sources feature within News on Search … and you can now use it with our site!”

Figure 1. Google Introduces Preferred Sources to Help Readers Choose Trusted News.

“When you search a news topic on Google—no matter what device you’re using—you’ll notice a banner labeled ‘Top stories.’ Just to the right of that title sits an icon showing two cards stacked together with a star on top.” Figure 1 shows Google Introduces Preferred Sources to Help Readers Choose Trusted News.

“When you click the icon, you’ll be taken to a screen where you can search for a website of your choice by typing its name (for example, New Atlas) into the search bar. Once the site’s name and logo appear below, simply click to select it.”

“From then on, articles from your chosen site will show up more often in the Top Stories section, alongside content from other outlets. You may also see them featured in a From Your Sources section, located just below Top Stories.”

“Alternatively, if you’re visiting a website you’d like to add, check whether it displays an ‘Add as a preferred source on Google’ button. If it does, simply click it. Our site will have this option available in the coming days.”

Why Preferred Sources Matter

In an age of information overload, not all news is created equal. Google’s Preferred Sources helps readers cut through the noise by spotlighting outlets they trust, instead of relying solely on the first search results.

How the Feature Works

When users search a trending topic, they’ll see a Top Stories banner. Beside it sits an icon of two cards with a star. Clicking this lets users choose their go-to sites, ensuring those sources surface more often in their results.

Adding Trusted Outlets

To add a source, simply type the name of the website into the search box (e.g., New Atlas) and select it when the logo appears. From then on, articles from that outlet will be highlighted in Top Stories or a new From Your Sources section.

On-Site Integration

Some websites will also feature an “Add as a preferred source on Google” button. With one click, readers can prioritize that outlet. Many sites, including ours, are preparing to roll this out soon.

Empowering Critical Readers

By putting source selection in the hands of readers, Google is encouraging more informed consumption of news. It’s not just about convenience — it’s about building a habit of critical engagement with information.

Source:NEW ATLAS

Cite this article:

Priyadharshini S (2025), Google Rolls Out Preferred Sources to Aid Critical News Readers, AnaTechMaz, pp. 308