What does Google’s ‘Preferred Sources’ mean for the way we consume news online?

Luke Meredith

Google has introduced a new feature called Preferred Sources that has the potential to change the way people find news online. Instead of letting Google decide what shows up first, users can now tell the search engine which news outlets or organisations they want to see more often.

The idea behind Preferred Sources is simple: give people more control. Normally, the internet shows us information based on complicated algorithms. These algorithms use our browsing history, our devices and our online behaviour to decide what we see. They also consider which websites are popular and which pay for their posts to be promoted. This can leave users feeling that they have little power over the information that reaches them. Preferred Sources tries to change that by allowing people to make some of these choices themselves.

Anyone who’s swapped phones with a friend knows how different two people’s online worlds can be. Tech companies gather huge amounts of data about us and use this information to keep us on their platforms and to sell targeted advertising.

Studies have shown that users want more control and more clarity over what they see online. At first glance, Preferred Sources seems to help. Choosing a set of trusted organisations may have the benefit of making it easier to judge search results. Instead of checking every source one by one, users can trust the choices they have made.

However, the feature also comes with its risks. Being given more choice does not mean people will always make choices that help them stay well informed. Someone might prefer sources that are entertaining but not trustworthy, which, over time, can limit the diversity of the news they consume.

By choosing reliable sources and keeping a balanced mix, people can build stronger skills for navigating the online world. This not only helps them but also supports healthier, better informed communities.

Here at Engage Web, we strive to help our SEO clients become trusted online authorities in their industries. If you’d like your brand to boast this level of trust, speak to our team about search engine optimisation 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.