There are a number of great launchers for those who like to customize their Android phones from top to bottom. Yahoo's Aviate launcher is now a whole lot smarter, thanks to a new feature called Smart Stream, which refreshes with relevant content throughout your day.
Much like Google Now, Yahoo's Smart Stream relies on context to bring you the most important information exactly when you need it. Since Aviate is your new home screen, you'll see up-to-the-minute information as soon as you unlock your phone. Over time, Smart Stream starts to learn your preferences and gets smarter the more you use it. It'll bring up information from all your favorite apps based on where you are, the time of day, and other factors.
So if you're walking around town at lunch time, the Smart Stream will show you a bunch of good places to eat nearby. If your favorite team is playing, it'll send you live score updates. Should you plug in your headphones, it'll bring up your music apps. In the event that Smart Stream gets it wrong, you can always search for the app you're looking for on the Focus menu, which is right next to the search bar.
The Smart Stream feature replaces Aviate's Spaces section, and while some are sure to love the update, many of those who have been using Aviate for a while now are upset by the change, and are venting their feelings on the Google Play Store with many one-star reviews.
Although Aviate's new feature is a lot like Google Now, Yahoo's Smart Stream has a different look and a few additional features that may appeal to many Android users. If you're interested, keep in mind that it's only available to English users in the U.S. with phones running Android 4.1 Jelly Bean and up. You can download it now from the Google Play Store.
Get a daily look at what’s developing in science and technology throughout the world.