AOL begins beta trial of new homepage

AOL is promising greater reach and relevancy for the advertising community

AOL has announced the launch of its new homepage, and is offering users a beta trial in which they can sign into multiple online accounts including Gmail, for example.

"We are nearing the 'finishing line' with a new home page design and a set of features that will put you more in control of your online experience," the company said in a statement on the site.

"In the coming weeks, we will be introducing the ability for you to preview your email accounts from other providers such as Yahoo and Gmail without having to leave your homepage."

As well as email, AOL users will be given previews of their social networking accounts and any updated material, including AIM, MySpace, Bebo, Twitter and Facebook. The page will be customisable with a range of themes, and includes an RSS reader.

A version of the site has already been launched in the US, which AOL claims has led to increases in page views and time spent online.

"As the web has become more fragmented, consumers want choice and relevance in their web experience," said AOL Europe chief executive Dana Dunne.

"The reinvented homepage offers a convenient one-stop destination where users can access everything they love on the web within just a few clicks.

"For the advertising community, it means even greater reach and relevancy for campaigns aimed at audiences across a wealth of rich media content and channels already available on AOL, with our loyal user base staying 'at home' for even longer."

The site is expected to fully launch this summer.