How to customize your Google Search results to see your favorite sites first

What are Top Stories in Google Search?

Google Top Stories is a section on the Google Search results page that highlights the most relevant and timely news articles related to your search. It appears as a carousel at the top of the page when Google detects a current event, trending topic, or news query.

Also: Google’s new Search mode puts classic results back on top – how to access it

Is there a quick way to add ZDNET as a preferred source?

Yes. In Chrome and Chromium browsers specifcally, you can go to this link to automatically load ZDNET as a preferred source. 

google

Elyse Betters Picaro / ZDNET

Will I only see ZDNET in Top Stories once I add it?

No. Google will still show a mix of sources, but you’ll see ZDNET articles more often when they’re relevant and fresh.

Can I change my preferred sources later?

Yes. Your preferences aren’t set in stone. If you ever want to add more sources or remove one, you can go back to the star button next to Top Stories and make any changes.

Can I add more than one preferred source?

Yes. You can add as many as you like — Google says over half of early testers chose four or more.

Do I need a Google Account to set preferred sources?

Yes. You’ll need to be signed in to your Google Account so your preferences are saved.

I can’t set a preferred source on Google. Why?

As of August 2025, Preferred Sources is only rolling out in English in the US and India, but that may expand in the future.

Get the morning’s top stories in your inbox each day with our Tech Today newsletter.


Continue Reading