What is Google’s ‘preferred sources’ feature – and how to add AM
Google has introduced a feature called preferred sources, designed to give you more control over the news you see in its search pages.
Instead of relying on Google’s algorithm to pick which outlets appear in the Top stories block of a search results page, you can now tell Google which publishers you trust and want to see more often.
This is especially useful for automotive retail professionals who want fast, authoritative updates from AM.
What is Google’s preferred sources feature?
Google’s preferred sources allows users to prioritize specific websites so their stories appear more frequently and more prominently in Search, particularly in the ‘Top stories’ section and a dedicated ‘From your sources’ panel.
Key points:
The feature personalizes ‘Top stories’ so you see more content from sites you prefer.
Once selected, your preferred sites appear more frequently within ‘Top stories’ and other news‑related results.
It currently works for news‑triggering searches.
How to set AM as a preferred source
There are three ways.
Through Google search personalisation settings
Directly from the ‘Top stories’ carousel when it appears
(If you are already signed into Google, use this link to name your preferred source on Google.)
Here are step‑by‑step instructions using Google’s recommended methods.
1. Add AM via Google search settings
On mobile (Google app or any browser):
Open your browser or the Google app and go to Google.com.
Make sure you’re signed in to your Google account.
Tap your profile picture in the top‑right corner.
Select ‘Search personalization’.
Scroll down and tap Source preferences.
In the search box, type: am-online.com
When ‘AM-online’ appears, tick the checkbox to add it as a preferred source.
Google will now prioritise AM articles in relevant searches.
On desktop (Chrome, Edge, Safari, Firefox):
Go to Google.com and sign in.
Click your profile icon in the top‑right corner.
Select ‘Search personalization’.
Choose Source preferences.
Search for am-online.com or paste the URL.
Check the box to enable AM.
2. Add AM directly From the ‘Top stories’ carousel
Google also allows quick selection when you’re browsing trending news topics.
Search for a news‑related motor retail topic.
If a ‘Top stories’ carousel appears, look for the icon or star button next to it.
Click the icon, then search for or enter am-online.com.
Tick the checkbox to add AM.
This is a fast way to set preferences without visiting your settings.
Why add AM as a preferred source?
For people working in auto retail, ensuring AM-online appears first means:
- Faster access to trusted industry journalism
- Reduced clutter from unrelated consumer news
- More accurate updates on issues that matter to you as decision-maker in the UK automotive retail sector
- Preferred sources ensures relevant news from AM is prominent whenever you search.
> Google blog on preferred sources