Google is overhauling its search engine to help users navigate the information overload online and access trusted publishers more quickly. The company announced a massive five-point update package, including AI Mode and the Gemini app. The new Google Search features give users more control.

A new era of personalization is among the Google Search features

The most striking aspect of the update is the “Preferred Sources” feature. Having successfully passed tests in the US and India, this system is now being rolled out globally. Users can select their trusted news sites by clicking the star icon in the “Top Stories” section of search results. This will allow your favorite publishers to appear higher in search results and in a personalized loop.

According to Google data, users who select their favorite sources visit those sites an average of twice as often. This feature will be activated in English-speaking regions in the coming days, and in other supported languages, including Turkish, in early 2026.

The company is also increasing transparency in AI results. AI Mode will now add more links to answers. Furthermore, contextual summaries explaining why those links are there will be provided. For example, when offering a decorating suggestion, it will be indicated beforehand that the given link contains budget-friendly ideas.

The Gemini app is also becoming more personalized. If you have a paid news subscription, Gemini will highlight and emphasize information from that source. Additionally, as part of the “AI Pilot Program” launched with major media organizations like The Guardian, Der Spiegel, and El Pais, AI-powered article summaries and voice briefings will be tested on Google News.

So, what do you think about these new Google Search features? Does highlighting trusted sites improve your search experience? Share your thoughts in the comments!