Can Mayer Boost Yahoo’s Mobile Strength?

Yahoo! (NASDAQ:YHOO) CEO Marissa Mayer is really trying to turn things around for the company. Most recently, her efforts have turned to Yahoo’s mobile endeavors, which she plans to trim down.

As Google (NASDAQ:GOOG) has already put out Android, the most popular smartphone operating system, Yahoo has undeniably fallen behind its big-time search rival. To make matters worse, Yahoo seems to have an uncommon problem further holding back its growth in the new medium: too many apps for mobile devices.

The plan, as Mayer has stated, is to narrow down the portfolio to between 12 and 15 different mobile applications. Yahoo has previously had as many as 75 different apps, which proved overwhelming for its 200 million-plus users.

Streamlining its app business should allow for stronger apps and make it easier for users to find just what they are seeking without needing to download too many different apps. The company will likely maintain apps for email, news, finance, and entertainment, among others…