Google introduces user-selected sources in the US

Luke Meredith

Google has brought out a new section titled “Preferred Sources” to allow people in the US and India to personalise the news received in search results. The new section, available so far for searches in the English language only, allows people to select their preferred news websites and blogs and emphasise those in the Top Stories section.

Subscribers can access the feature by clicking on a star button next to Top Stories results upon conducting a search. Then, they can search and add favourite sources. Once they’ve added the sources, the search results refresh and display stories from the sources that were added. Sometimes a new “From your sources” section also becomes visible below Top Stories, displaying even more tailored stories.

Initially released as a test feature of Search Labs, Google says more than half of the initial test users selected four or more sources. Google calls the release a declaration of support for continuing company work to improve search experience through user feedback.

Though the feature promotes increased personalisation, there are other concerns in it facilitating ideological bubbles. Users can deter themselves from exposure to a range of opinions and coverage of the most complicated issues by emphasising those with which they are already most in agreement with.

Google took the step on the eve of mounting demands for more control over online consumption of information. While internet companies are struggling with the problem of juggling between personalisation and diversity of information, “Preferred Sources” is the first example of users being able to tailor the sources they see on search engines to their own tastes.

Google has already catered to two world markets of English-speaking consumers and has plans of expansion in the future on the cards. Whether the customisation trend strengthens the consumers’ experience or reshapes their vision remains to be seen in the future.

It’s currently unknown if or when this feature will be rolled out to other areas, such as the UK. However, if this becomes a reality, you can rest assured that our experts at Engage Web will be on hand to help you navigate the changes. For more help on succeeding with Google, speak to our team today.

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Luke Meredith

Content Editor at Engage Web

At home in both the digital sector and the world of communications, Luke thrives on deadlines and has held roles in healthcare, retail and digital marketing, gaining a sound knowledge of a wide range of sectors. He’s a massive swot as well, holding a first-class degree in BA Communication and Media, and now uses his writing skills and keen editorial eye in his role as Content Editor here. Luke helps to oversee our clients’ content requirements, while also looking after a pool of freelance writers across three continents.