Google Product Manager Duncan Osborn emphasized that the goal of this feature is to help users stay updated with content from their selected sites while ensuring a diverse range of sources to prevent a filter bubble.

To assist publishers in retaining readership, Google is providing tools to encourage users to add their publications to their Preferred Sources list, including a call-to-action button.

Despite Google's assertion that overall click volumes to websites remain stable, many publishers report significant drops in traffic attributed to AI-generated summaries, leading to legal challenges over content usage.

While Google claims that AI updates have not negatively impacted website traffic, major news outlets have expressed concerns over decreased visibility from Google search links.

Analysts are skeptical about whether the 'Preferred Sources' feature genuinely benefits publishers or merely complicates the existing algorithmic landscape that favors Google's curated content.

There is no limit on the number of sources users can add, encouraging extensive customization of their news feeds.

Google has launched a new feature called 'Preferred Sources' for users in the U.S. and India, allowing them to select their favorite news sites and blogs for the Top Stories section of search results.

The introduction of 'Preferred Sources' can be viewed as a conciliatory gesture from Google towards publishers, yet it does not change the company's AI-first strategy that has frustrated many in the media industry.

Once users select their preferred sources, they can refresh results to see content specifically from those sources, with a dedicated 'From your sources' section appearing for relevant queries.

While the feature aims to cater to user preferences, it raises concerns about creating ideological bubbles by limiting exposure to diverse viewpoints.

The rollout of 'Preferred Sources' occurs amid ongoing tensions regarding AI-driven search results and their impact on publishers' traffic, with many arguing that Google's AI developments threaten their business models.

This feature is now available to all users conducting English language searches in the U.S. and India, enhancing the customization of their search experience.