Google Discover, formerly known as Google Feed, is a personalized content recommendation service designed to show users relevant articles, news, and updates based on their browsing habits and interests. Powered by Google’s advanced AI, Discover presents a curated feed that includes everything from breaking news to sports, technology, and entertainment content— all tailored to each user.
Google achieves this by analyzing your searches, in-app behavior, and even location history. It then selects and displays content cards in your feed accordingly. Users can personalize this experience further by choosing to follow specific topics or mute the ones they’re not interested in. This feature relies on data collected through Google’s Web & App Activity settings.
How to Enable Google Discover
Google Discover is built into the Google app on both Android and iOS. It can be easily turned on or off in the app settings.
If you do not need it, you can turn it off.
Setting Path:
- Method 1: Turn on Google Chrome > Discover by Google > Setting icon next to Discover > Turn on/off.
-
Method 2: Open Google App > Tap on Profile on top right > Settings > General > Discover > Disable/enable it.
Why Google Discover Matters for Websites
If you're in publishing, e-commerce, or any content-driven industry, appearing in Google Discover can be a powerful traffic booster.
Here’s why:
Rapid Traffic Growth
Getting featured in Discover can result in a sudden spike in website traffic. A single article can generate thousands of views within just a few days. These traffic peaks typically last 3–5 days but can significantly increase exposure in a short time.
Access to a New Audience
Unlike traditional search traffic, Discover surfaces your content to users who didn’t explicitly search for it, but whose interests align with your topic. This means reaching potential readers or customers you might not otherwise capture through SEO alone.
Boosted Brand Awareness
The more frequently your content appears in Discover, the greater the visibility and recognition your brand gains. In today’s landscape, where channels like Google News or image/video search deliver diminishing returns, Discover can help bridge the gap and even drive direct traffic over time.
Revenue Potential
For content-based websites that rely on advertising, Discover-driven traffic means more ad impressions and, consequently, higher ad revenue. For e-commerce sites, it can increase visibility to high-intent audiences, boosting conversion potential and sales.
Content Strategy Insights
Discover gives a clear signal about what your audience finds engaging. The topics and articles that gain traction can inform your future content roadmap.
How to Get Featured in Google Discover
1. Ensure Indexing and Accessibility
First and foremost, your pages must be crawlable and indexable by Google. If key content is blocked by robots.txt or lacks indexing permissions, it won’t appear in Search or Discover. Use Google Search Console to verify and adjust these settings.
2. Mobile Optimization
Google Discover is primarily accessed on mobile devices, so your website must be mobile-friendly. Key mobile optimization practices include:
-
Responsive design ensures your website displays correctly across all screen sizes and devices.
-
Minimal intrusive ads: Avoid excessive pop-ups and clutter that disrupt the user experience.
-
AMP (Accelerated Mobile Pages): These load faster and often perform better in Discover.
3. Improve Loading Speed
Speed boosts your chances of appearing in Discover. To enhance your speed:
-
Analyze your site with PageSpeed Insights.
-
Compress images (use next-gen formats like WebP).
-
Enable caching so repeat visitors load pages faster.
Content Quality Is Key
Meeting Google’s content quality standards is non-negotiable. Discover prioritizes:
-
Accurate, objective, and trustworthy information
-
Neutral tone without clickbait or emotional manipulation
-
Clear value for the user— educational, insightful, or entertaining content that satisfies interest without misleading
Google Discover is not a replacement for organic search traffic, but it’s an excellent complement. It offers exposure, reach, and engagement with audiences who might never type a query into the search bar.
By producing high-quality content, ensuring mobile optimization, and staying aligned with user interests, you can significantly improve your chances of being featured.
Invest in SEO, write for people, and let Google Discover do the rest.