Google is introducing a new personalization feature called “Preferred Sources” in the U.S. and India, giving users the ability to hand-pick news sites and blogs they want to see more of in the Top Stories section of search results.
When searching for a topic, users will notice a star icon next to the Top Stories section. Tapping it allows them to search for and add their favorite sources. Once saved, they can refresh the results to see more content from these chosen outlets. In some cases, Google will also display a dedicated “From your sources” section beneath Top Stories.
Originally launched as a Search Labs experiment, Preferred Sources required users to opt in. Google reports that during testing, more than half of participants selected four or more sources. Based on this engagement, the company is now rolling it out to all users for English-language searches in the U.S. and India.
While the feature offers more control over where your news comes from, experts caution that it could deepen ideological filter bubbles, reducing exposure to diverse viewpoints.
Google says the goal is to help users access trusted content quickly, but the responsibility to keep perspectives balanced may rest on the users themselves.
