Google has recently launched a new feature allowing users to prioritize news sources in their search results, a move aimed at combating misinformation and surfacing high-quality journalism. This update introduces “preferred sources,” enabling individuals to directly influence the news they see in the prominent “Top Stories” section of Google Search. Users can now specify outlets like Gulf News as trusted sources, potentially increasing their visibility.
The rollout, currently available to users globally, comes as concerns surrounding the spread of false information and low-quality content online continue to grow. According to Google, the tool is designed to give users more control over their news consumption by elevating content from publishers they deem reliable, separate from algorithm changes.
How to Add a Preferred News Source on Google
The process of designating preferred sources is relatively straightforward. Users can access the feature by searching for a trending news topic on Google. If a “Top Stories” carousel appears, a star icon next to the section title allows users to access the preferences menu.
From this menu, users can ‘Choose your preferred sources’ by typing in the name or web address of their desired news organization, like Gulf News. A dropdown list will populate with matches, allowing users to select multiple sources. Conversely, sources can be removed by managing the “Your sources” section at the bottom of the pop-up window.
Impact of Preferred Sources
Adding a source to your preferences doesn’t guarantee exclusive coverage. Google clarifies that preferred sources will be given increased prominence within the “Top Stories” section or, in some cases, highlighted in a dedicated “From your sources” feature appearing further down the search results page. This means content from selected outlets is more likely to be seen, but users will still encounter news from other publishers.
The rise of artificial intelligence-generated content and unverified reporting online has underscored the importance of trusted news providers. Many sources are now creating content rapidly with limited fact-checking. This feature positions reliable outlets, such as those with established journalistic standards, to stand out in a crowded digital landscape.
Gulf News, based in the UAE, emphasizes its commitment to accurate and verified reporting on the region. Journalists at the publication focus on providing in-depth coverage of the country’s developments and the communities within it. The publication notes that some reporting on the UAE originates from sources lacking on-the-ground presence, potentially leading to inaccuracies and misrepresentation.
By designating Gulf News as a preferred source, users can prioritize news produced by journalists deeply familiar with the local context. This ensures access to comprehensive and trustworthy insights into the UAE and the broader Middle East, especially valuable amid increasing global media bias concerns. The feature tackles the issue of news credibility head-on.
The introduction of preferred sources is part of a broader trend within search engines to personalize the user experience and provide more relevant results. However, this personalization carries potential implications for filter bubbles and echo chambers, where individuals are primarily exposed to information confirming their existing beliefs. This ongoing dynamic adds complexity to the challenge of information control.
While Google’s system appears designed to mitigate the information quality issue, the effectiveness of the tool depends on consistent and informed user input. Those new to the concept of search personalization may not realize the feature exists or understand its implications for their news consumption habits.
The long-term impact of this update remains to be seen. Google has not specified a timeline for evaluating the feature’s performance and making potential adjustments. Industry analysts will be monitoring changes in traffic and engagement for preferred news sources. Future iterations could incorporate more sophisticated methods for identifying and promoting high-quality journalism or introduce features for reporting misinformation directly to Google.
Watch for Google to likely analyze user adoption rates and the correlation between preferred source selections and user satisfaction with search results. Further adjustments to the algorithm are possible as the company assesses the feature’s performance in promoting trustworthy news and combating the spread of unreliable information.
Written by: Mark Thompson, Editor-in-Chief of Gulf News.
