How to Customize Google's Top Stories

Sunday, August 17, 2025

How to Customize Google's Top Stories

How to Customize Google's Top Stories

Google Search now lets you pick your preferred sources for the Top Stories section. With a few quick steps, you can make sure the outlets you trust appear first.

By Rodger Mansfield, Technology Editor

August 17, 2025

Have you ever searched for news and felt overwhelmed by the random mix of outlets?

Some you trust, others you don’t, and plenty that just waste your time.

Here's a Cool Tip: Select Your Preferred Sources for the Top Stories.

You can now tell Search which outlets you prefer, and they’ll appear more prominently in Top Stories.

It is a small change with a big impact on how you find reliable news.

What the Feature Is and Why It Matters

The new Preferred Sources option in Google Search allows you to highlight the publishers you want to see first in Top Stories.

Once you select them, Google prioritizes their coverage when it’s relevant.

The feature is available now in English for the United States and India, with more regions expected soon.

There is no cap on how many outlets you can choose.

If you were part of the early testing, your preferences are already saved.

Publishers can even add direct links or buttons on their websites to make it easier for readers to add them as a preferred source.

What You'll Gain

Save time by skipping low-quality results
Stay informed with outlets you trust
Enjoy a more focused, efficient search experience

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here's how to do it.

On Desktop (Web Browsers)

Sign into your Google account, www.Google.com.
Search for a news topic.
When Top Stories appears, look for the star icon next to its header.
Click the star to open the Preferred Sources menu.
Use the search bar to find and select your favorite outlets.
Select "Reload Results".
To edit later, return to the star menu and update your selections.

fig. 1 - Select the Star in Google Search Results

fig. 2 - Choose Your Preferred Sources in Google Search

On iOS and Android

Open Google in your browser or app while signed in.
Search for a news topic.
Tap the star in the Top Stories section.
Search for outlets and select them.
Tap Reload results to apply changes.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Saves time by cutting down on scrolling through unwanted outlets.
Ensures trusted sites like TechCrunch or The Atlantic show up first.
Reduces noise and keeps your focus on relevant coverage.

Cons

Can create a “bubble effect” if too few outlets are chosen.
Limits exposure to fresh or diverse perspectives.
Requires thoughtful selection to balance reliability with variety.

Configuration Guide

To change your sources at any time:

Search for a news topic.
Tap the star icon, and
Adjust your list.

The settings sync across devices when you are signed in.

Who Can Use It

The feature is currently available in English in the United States and India.

It works on both desktop and mobile, and all you need is a Google account. No subscription is required.

Score

Score | Criterion | Justification

Value 8
Helps cut through noise and get trusted results quickly.

Usability 9
Setup is simple and works across devices.

Wow Factor 7
The feature is not flashy, but the control it gives users feels fresh.

Total: 24 / 30 Rating: Good. Worth adopting for most users.

Key Takeaways

Preferred Sources gives you control over Google’s Top Stories.

It’s fast to set up, free to use, and makes search results feel more personal. Just make sure you don’t narrow your view too much.

Try It Yourself

Search for a trending topic, tap the star in Top Stories, and select your favorite outlets.

Give it a try today.

Share your list of sources, subscribe for more tips, and pass this along to someone who needs a cleaner news feed.

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Rodger Mansfield, a seasoned tech expert, is the mastermind behind www.OneCoolTip.com where he serves as both writer and editor. With a keen eye for simplifying complex tech, Rodger delivers practical advice that empowers readers to navigate the digital world with confidence. Dive into www.OneCoolTip.com for a treasure trove of savvy tips and tricks that keep you one step ahead in tech.