Introduction
Google is changing Discover so it shows short videos and social posts (YouTube Shorts, X and Instagram) and adds a built-in follow button for creators and publishers. The update brings social content into the Discover feed and gives readers a quick way to follow voices they like — all inside the Google app.
Google Discover follow feature: what it means for readers
You can now tap a creator or publisher name inside a Discover card, preview their latest posts (articles, Shorts and social posts), and hit Follow to create a dedicated space for that creator’s content in your feed.
That means Discover will surface more content from the people and outlets you follow, rather than only algorithmic suggestions. To use it you must be signed into your Google Account; the rollout begins “in the coming weeks.”
How Discover will show YouTube Shorts and social posts
Discover is expanding the types of content it shows. In addition to articles and links, you’ll now see:
- Short videos like YouTube Shorts embedded in the feed.
- Social posts from platforms such as X and Instagram (initial partners), with more platforms coming later.
Google said people told them they liked a mix of short videos and social posts as part of their feed, so Discover will include these formats more often. Expect video autoplay behavior similar to other short-form feeds, and quick actions like tapping to follow right from the card.
How to follow creators in Google Discover
- Find a Discover card from a creator or publisher.
- Tap the creator/publisher name shown on the card to preview their content stream.
- Tap Follow to add their updates to your personalized Discover area.
- To stop following, open the creator’s page again and tap Unfollow.
This follows Google’s recent moves to give users more control over sources in Search and Discover.
What changes for publishers, creators and readers
For creators and publishers, Discover’s follow feature offers a new way to reach followers without forcing users to leave the Google app. For readers, it simplifies keeping up with favorite creators across channels — you can see both short videos and text posts in one place.
Publishers should note Google’s preview + follow flow makes it easier for users to sample content before subscribing or following. However, the mix of social posts and articles could shift traffic patterns, so publishers will want to monitor referral sources closely.
Privacy, moderation and signals to watch
Google says Discover will respect platform content policies and account settings; you’ll need to be logged in to follow creators. The company didn’t fully detail how it decides which creators or social posts qualify for Discover placement — watch for updates and publisher guidance from Google in the rollout notes.
Readers should also check their Discover controls to adjust personalization and the new follow settings.
Quick tips for readers
- Use Follow to build a compact feed of creators you trust.
- Preview a creator’s content before following to avoid unwanted topics.
- If you want fewer social posts, adjust Discover personalization in the Google app settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
What new content will Google Discover show?
Discover will start showing YouTube Shorts and social posts from platforms like X and Instagram, alongside articles and other web content. Google plans to add more platforms over time.
How do I follow a creator in Discover?
Tap a creator or publisher name on a Discover card to preview their content, then tap the “Follow” button to see more of their posts and videos in your Discover feed.
Do I need a Google account to use the follow feature?
Yes — you must be signed into your Google Account to follow creators or publishers in Discover.
Will Discover show content from all social platforms?
Not immediately. Google is starting with a few platforms (YouTube Shorts, X, Instagram) and says it will add more sources later.
Writer note and thought:
I wrote this from Google’s official announcement and trusted coverage. Dates and feature details are from Google’s blog and industry reporting; I describe what is official and what is rolling out. I’ll update the article as Google expands supported platforms.