Google announced on Friday a series of AI-powered updates coming to its app, giving users expanded ability to customize their Discovery news feed with natural language instructions. Additional improvements include more robust audio briefing options and upgrades to the “Preferred Sources” selection.
Interactive Natural Language Personalization
With the new release, users can shape their Discovery feed by directly stating the types of news and topics they want or would rather avoid, using everyday language. Instead of limiting customization to individual article feedback, users now have the option to open the three-dot menu on their feed and type requests like, “show me kitchen renovation tips and ideas.” Google’s Gemini AI will then propose relevant story groupings, for example, “Modern layout ideas and floor plans” or “Budget-friendly cabinet and countertop refreshes.”
Users interactively guide this customization. If the content suggestions aren’t quite right, they can clarify further, such as specifying “eco-friendly and sustainable upgrades,” and repeat this process as needed until satisfied. Afterwards, refreshing the feed displays a tailored selection based on those preferences. According to Google, users can expect these changes to become available “in the coming days.”
Audio Briefing and Preferred Sources Upgrades
Customization improvements also extend to Google News on Android, where users are now able to select not only main news themes but also detailed subtopics for their audio briefings. For instance, someone focusing exclusively on neuroscience and space within science and technology can filter out areas like environment or gaming, receiving audio digests that better reflect their interests. This offers a more granular approach for those wanting to direct their listening experience.
The “Preferred Sources” feature is also seeing a broader rollout. Where previously users could only set general publisher preferences, the revised interface allows individuals to specify which sources Google should highlight for particular subjects. For example, designating a preferred publisher just for topics such as AI, Apple, or security will make it more likely to see that outlet’s coverage on those issues in the user’s feed.
AI-Powered Personalization Across Platforms
Google’s new features are part of a larger movement enabling users to more actively guide their digital experiences through AI. Natural language controls coming to the Google app parallel other recent updates in technology, such as coding and playlist creation platforms. By allowing users to express complex preferences without manual sorting or providing feedback on every article, Google’s AI can interpret and act on these directions to personalize content feeds.
As these new Discovery, audio, and preferred source options launch, Google app users will gain greater influence over what content appears for them. Additional information, along with Google’s detailed announcement, is available on the company’s official blog.