Google launches Preferred Sources button and Gemini curation for Discover feed

Google has introduced a new "Preferred Sources" button designed to help webmasters retain reader attention within its search ecosystem. The feature allows readers to add a specific publication to their Google Search profile, which subsequently increases the site’s visibility in Top Stories, AI Overviews, and AI Mode. Once a user clicks the button, the site is added to their profile, and they are immediately directed back to the publisher’s page.

This move formalises a practice that publishers, including Engadget, had been adopting independently. The timing is notable given that referral traffic from Google has declined in recent years, a trend attributed to the rise of AI-driven search results. While the search engine remains a critical revenue source for many media outlets, the extent to which this new feature will benefit publishers in terms of traffic or revenue remains to be seen.

The announcement comes amid heightened regulatory scrutiny. In June, Google announced that websites could opt out of appearing in AI-generated search results, a decision made under pressure from the UK’s Competition and Markets Authority. The introduction of the Preferred Sources button may serve to appease at least some publishers, though the long-term impact on the competitive landscape is still unclear.

Concurrently, Google is rolling out an update to its Discover feed, available in the Google app, Chrome, and on Android. This update enables users to curate the content they see by conversing with the company’s Gemini chatbot. The feature is initially available via the mobile app, where users can access Gemini by tapping the three-dot icon next to any story. According to Google, the feed will adjust on the fly and remember user requests.

The integration of Gemini into the Discover feed has drawn attention to the company’s growing capital expenditure on AI infrastructure. While some observers view the feature as a practical tool for personalisation, others suggest it may be an attempt to boost Gemini usage numbers to justify these investments to investors. However, Google already offers various methods for users to shape their Discover feed without the need for a chatbot interface.

For users who prefer audio, Google is also enhancing its News app on Android with customisation options for audio briefings. Users can now select specific topics for their briefings, which include clear source attribution and links to full articles. As with previous updates, it may take a few days for these new features to appear in individual accounts.