Enhance Your Google Search Experience by Adding WIRED as a Preferred Source (2025)

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September 7, 2025

Google Search Faces User Backlash: New Tool Aims to Restore Control

Google Search is experiencing increased scrutiny as users report difficulty finding relevant information amid recent updates and the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence. the changes, including AI-powered summaries, have led to frustration and concerns about the quality and accuracy of search results.

The Rise of “Google Zero” and its Impact

Earlier this year, Google implemented a notable algorithm update, one of several hundred annually, with a handful considered “core updates” generating large effects. This modification caused noticeable declines in website traffic and search rankings, even for previously well-performing content.Industry analysts have termed this phenomenon “Google Zero,” attributing it, in part, to the increasing prominence of AI overviews in search results.

According to data from Semrush, a leading SEO analytics platform, organic traffic from Google Search declined by an average of 15% across monitored websites in july following the roll out of the revised algorithm. This trend points to a potential shift in the way users interact with search engines and consume online content.

AI Overviews: Convenience at a Cost?

For several years, Google has been integrating AI into its Search experience, culminating in the current iteration of AI overviews. While these summaries offer a swift snapshot of information, they frequently enough reduce the incentive for users to visit the original websites where the reporting originated. Moreover, instances of inaccurate information and reliance on unreliable sources within these AI summaries have raised concerns about the integrity of Google Search.

Did You Know? Some reports indicate that AI-generated summaries have, from time to time, presented outdated or entirely fabricated information, highlighting the risk of relying solely on these automated responses.

Take Back Control: introducing Google’s Preferred Sources

In response to user feedback, Google has launched a new feature called “Preferred Sources.” This tool allows users to prioritize specific publishers and websites within their search results. By designating preferred sources, users can see more content from trusted origins in Top Stories and a dedicated “From Your Sources” section on certain search pages.

How to Use Google’s Preferred Sources

Users can easily set their preferred sources by visiting a dedicated Google preferences page and selecting the websites they trust. This customization option enables a more tailored search experience, filtering results to prioritize credible and reliable information providers.

Pro Tip: Regularly review and update your preferred sources to ensure they align with your evolving information needs and maintain their journalistic standards.

Feature	Description	Benefit
Preferred Sources	Allows users to prioritize specific websites in search results.	More relevant and trustworthy search results.
Top Stories Prioritization	Preferred Sources are given higher visibility in Top Stories.	Easier access to news and information from trusted sources.
Dedicated “From Your Sources” Section.	A separate section showcasing content from preferred sources.	Filtered information and reduced exposure to possibly unreliable content.

The Evolving Landscape of Search

The ongoing changes to Google Search reflect a broader trend towards AI-driven information retrieval. While AI offers convenience and efficiency, it’s crucial to remain vigilant about the source and accuracy of information. Mastering tools like “Preferred Sources” is becoming increasingly important for users who valu

How does regularly using “About this result” and selecting “More like this” impact Google’s algorithm?

Why Prioritize Source Preferences in Google Search?

In 2025, Google’s search algorithms are more refined than ever. While ranking factors like backlinks and keyword optimization remain important (as evidenced by ongoing SEO discussions – see zhihu.com), user behavior and personalized search experiences are paramount. Google is increasingly focused on understanding what you trust and where you prefer to get your data. Leveraging Google’s source preference features allows you to actively shape your search results, ensuring you see content from publications you value – like WIRED. This isn’t about manipulating search rankings; it’s about refining your individual search journey.

Understanding Google’s Source Preference Tools

Google offers several ways to indicate your preferred sources.These tools have evolved over the past few years,becoming more intuitive and powerful. Here’s a breakdown:

About this result: This feature, prominently displayed beneath each search result, allows you to provide feedback on the source. You can choose options like “more like this,” “Less like this,” or “Not relevant.” Consistently selecting “More like this” for WIRED articles signals to Google that you value their content.

Google News Initiative (GNI) Tools: while primarily aimed at news publishers, GNI tools indirectly benefit users by improving the quality and trustworthiness of news sources in search. A stronger news ecosystem means better search results overall.

Personalized Search Settings: Google allows some level of personalization within your Google account settings. While not a direct “preferred source” list, adjusting your interests and topics can influence the types of sources Google prioritizes.

Chrome Browser Extensions: Several third-party browser extensions are emerging that aim to enhance source preference control. Research and choose reputable extensions with strong privacy policies.

How WIRED Enhances Your Online Research

WIRED consistently delivers high-quality, in-depth reporting on technology, science, culture, and business. Here’s why prioritizing WIRED in your Google searches is beneficial:

Expert Analysis: WIRED’s writers and contributors are frequently enough industry leaders and experts in their fields.

Future-Focused Reporting: They excel at identifying emerging trends and providing insightful analysis of future technologies. This is crucial for staying ahead in a rapidly changing world.

Fact-Checked Journalism: WIRED maintains a strong commitment to journalistic integrity and rigorous fact-checking.

Diverse Coverage: From artificial intelligence and cybersecurity to space exploration and design, WIRED covers a broad range of topics.

Long-Form Investigative Journalism: WIRED frequently publishes in-depth investigative pieces that provide a extensive understanding of complex issues.

Step-by-Step guide: Prioritizing WIRED in Google Search

Here’s how to actively tell Google you prefer WIRED as a source:

1. Regularly Use “About this result”: After each WIRED article you find helpful in your Google search, click “About this result” and select “More like this.” This is the most direct method.
2. Engage with WIRED Content: Actively reading and spending time on WIRED’s website signals to Google that you find their content valuable.
3. Follow WIRED on Social Media: While not a direct ranking factor, social signals can indirectly influence Google’s perception of a source’s authority.
4. Utilize Google News (If Applicable): If you use Google News,actively follow WIRED within the platform.
5. Explore Browser Extensions: Research and install a reputable browser extension designed to manage source preferences (exercise caution and prioritize privacy).

Beyond WIRED: Building a Personalized Search Ecosystem

While focusing on WIRED is a great starting point, consider expanding your preferred sources to create a well-rounded search experience. Think about publications you consistently trust for specific topics:

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