Google Search is introducing a feature that permits select users to tailor their news browsing experience by enabling them to choose Preferred Sources for the news articles displayed in the “Top Stories” section. This functionality arrives amidst growing scrutiny directed at Google regarding the effects its AI tools have had on the search experience for publishers. While recent assessments from independent sources have suggested that AI Overviews led to a decline in website visits, Google countered just days ago, asserting that AI functionalities within Google Search have enhanced the quality of clicks and that the overall traffic remains consistent.
The Preferred Sources feature may not automatically boost traffic for particular publishers or resolve any Google Search traffic issues that Google might be addressing independently of its public statements, but it presents an excellent opportunity for users to customize their Google Search experience. With Preferred Sources, more of your preferred websites and news outlets are likely to appear in Google Search results connected to news topics than in the past. The “Top Stories” section will continue to showcase news articles from sources that are not among your selected favorites.
