New Google Feature Lets Users Filter AI-Generated News

The introduction of a new feature called Preferred Sources by Google aims to empower users in the age of artificial intelligence (AI). Launched in August 2025, this tool allows users to select their trusted news outlets, addressing growing concerns about the reliability of AI-generated content.

AI’s Impact on News Consumption

Since the rise of AI technologies, such as ChatGPT and Google’s own Gemini, the landscape of digital information has shifted significantly. An article in The Wall Street Journal from 2019 warned that AI was capable of generating misleading news stories, a concern that has only intensified in recent years. Users can now see AI-generated summaries at the top of Google Search results, intended to provide quick answers. However, these summaries have been criticized for frequently containing inaccuracies, including basic errors like misidentifying the current year.

The proliferation of AI-generated articles, often produced at scale by content mills, has further complicated the situation. A study conducted by the European Broadcasting Union and the BBC found that AI models misrepresent news content with an error rate as high as 45%. This has caused skepticism among readers, especially regarding politically sensitive topics.

Concerns and User Solutions

Research conducted by the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism across 47 countries revealed that many users feel uneasy about reading AI-generated news. Furthermore, a study by Poynter indicated that nearly half of Americans prefer not to receive news through AI channels. This sentiment is juxtaposed with rising AI usage in markets like India, where adoption has reportedly doubled as of 2025, according to a joint study by Oxford University and the Reuters Institute.

Despite the challenges presented by AI-generated news, some newsrooms are beginning to adopt AI ethically. However, many do not disclose their use of AI tools, leaving readers to navigate a complex landscape of information. The Preferred Sources feature in Google Search offers a practical solution. Users can select news outlets they trust, which helps mitigate the risks associated with AI-generated content.

To set up Preferred Sources, users need to perform a search in Google. Upon viewing the search results, they should scroll to the Top Stories section and click on the star icon next to the text. This action opens a pop-up window where users can enter their preferred news outlets. After selecting their choices, they can click “Reload results,” ensuring that future searches prioritize content from these trusted sources.

The rapid integration of AI into digital platforms has brought about significant changes in user behavior and expectations. While AI tools hold the potential to enhance the information retrieval process, the responsibility ultimately lies with readers to choose reliable sources. Google’s Preferred Sources feature empowers users to take control of their news consumption, allowing them to stay informed while navigating the complexities of AI-generated information.