GOOGLE has rolled out a new feature in the UK, which allows users to customise their search results page based on their own preferences.
Previously, the search results you saw on Google were driven by algorithms, which decided what content was shown to you based on multiple factors, except your own preferences.
But a recent update has changed this significantly by giving you the option to select which sources are most relevant to you.
That way, you will see more stories from the outlets you care about in the ‘Top stories’ box on the search results page, putting you in control.
Following its rollout in the US and India last summer, Google’s new ‘preferred sources’ feature has now arrived in the UK.
Add The Sun to your preferred sources, and you will spot our latest reporting more often, all for free.
How to add The Sun as a preferred source
It takes less than a minute to prioritise The Sun in Google Search, and you only have to do it once.
The easiest way is to use this easy shortcut we have prepared for our readers, but if that does not work for you, follow these simple steps:
- Open Google in your browser or the Google app on your phone and make sure you are signed in. This will allow your browser to remember your selected option.
- Search for a recent news story so that a ‘Top stories’ box appears. For example, type in “Arsenal” or “The Traitors“.
- Tap or click the small starred icon located on the right of “Top stories”.
- When prompted, search for “The Sun” and select The Sun’s page by ticking the box next to it.
- Click on “Reload results” to confirm your choice.
You should start seeing more of our articles in Top stories immediately, but sometimes it may take a bit longer to take effect.
You can add several outlets of your choice to your preferred sources, including The Sun and our other editions, The Scottish Sun, The Irish Sun and The US Sun.
While this selection will be saved for you, you can also easily change your picks at any time.
To remove or reorder sources, revisit the same menu and edit your choices.
Troubleshooting tips
If you cannot see the preferred sources feature, try one of these steps:
- Check you are logged in: Preferred sources are tied to your Google account. Make sure you are signed in using your Gmail address.
- Try a different news topic: The Top stories box only appears on queries with recent coverage, so you will not see it every time.
- Update the Google app: Install the latest version of the Google app on your device and try again.
- Refresh and repeat: After adding The Sun, refresh the page. If Top stories does not update straight away, give it a minute or two — the change is not always immediately apparent.
If the icon is still not there yet, the feature may not be available in your area. It is expanding gradually, so check back soon.
What changes in your result
- More Sun in Top Stories: When your search query matches our latest coverage, you will see The Sun featured more prominently in the Top Stories box.
- A dedicated “From your sources” section: Google adds a “From your sources” carousel on the results page so you can jump straight to the newest articles from your favourite outlets.
- Your search stays balanced: Google still shows you a mix of publishers. Preferred sources pushes more of your favourites into view, but doesn’t hide other reporting.
Why select The Sun as your preferred source?
Our newsroom excels in setting agendas with exclusive scoops, impactful investigations and the stories that everyone is talking about.
By adding The Sun to your preferred sources, you can stay updated with breaking news from all around the world.
You will also find must-read coverage of sport and showbiz, as well as money to help you manage your bills and find great deals.
We provide unique opinion pieces, features and exclusive interviews that you will not find anywhere else.
With your preferred sources enabled, you will receive more of this content as it becomes available, right in your search results, whether you use your phone or computer.
Add us once, and you will stay closer to the stories that matter every time you use Google.
