Yahoo wants to control your Android homescreen with Aviate

Yahoo has today launched a new smartphone UI experience called Aviate, which is available for Android phones (English speaking only). The idea is that the company can dip their toes in the mobile OS waters without going all-in on anything, as Yahoo works to strengthen its mobile portfolio. Here’s what the official release has to say: “Yahoo Aviate simplifies everything about your phone. It starts with a clean, new layout and apps automatically organized for you. But it’s not just about making your phone simpler – Aviate also makes your phone smarter by offering intelligent information throughout your day. Whether you’re on the go, at work, at a restaurant or just relaxing at home, Aviate automatically shows you apps and information that are useful to you based on what you’re up to.” What type of information is that, you might ask? Essentially, it’s going for a Google Now type experience that is baked right into the UI. So, for example, Aviate users will get information around the weather in the morning so they dress smart. But it goes deeper than that. Aviate can integrate with your email and calendar information to give you single-click access to a conference call, or help you get to work on time based on random traffic changes.