Mozilla attacks: This is what the "Thundermail" ecosystem should look like
9.4.2025
Translation: machine translated
Mozilla is building a new ecosystem. With an email service, smart calendar, file sharing system and local AI. It is to consist of privacy-friendly and open-source modules. The aim is to compete with data octopuses such as Gmail and the like.
"Thundermail" is the name of the new ambitious project from the Mozilla Foundation. The developers of the Thunderbird mail programme want to use it to get back into the conversation. This was once an open source client that lost users in droves due to convenient all-in-one platforms such as Gmail or Microsoft Office 365.
Now comes the big comeback: Thundermail is not just a new email service, but an entire suite of web services that will lay the foundation for an alternative, open source ecosystem - under the umbrella of "Thunderbird Pro".
Three modules without hidden AI
The centrepiece is the mail service of the same name, Thundermail. Users receive an email address under "thundermail.com" or "tb.pro" - and should be able to use a browser-based webmail interface in the medium term, similar to Gmail. Mozilla places particular emphasis on data protection: there will be no analysis of emails for advertising purposes, no transfer of data to third parties and no hidden use of AI training.
In addition to the email service, Mozilla is working on three modules that will be integrated into Thundermail:
Thunderbird Appointment
An appointment scheduling tool that allows you to schedule appointments, manage calendars and invite people to make appointments via links. Lean and simple, without excessive functionality.
Thunderbird Send
The rebirth of Firefox Send, which was discontinued in 2020. With the file sharing service, you should be able to send large files - similar to the WeTransfer service. According to Mozilla, sending is end-to-end encrypted and the service has been completely redeveloped so that the gaps and problems of the predecessor service can be ruled out.
Thunderbird Assist
Open source, but not free
In the long term, a slimmed-down plan is also planned. Free of charge, with limits on storage space or maximum file size when sending. It is not yet clear when the final version will be launched. You can join the waiting list here.
Header image: Shutterstock
I've been tinkering with digital networks ever since I found out how to activate both telephone channels on the ISDN card for greater bandwidth. As for the analogue variety, I've been doing that since I learned to talk. Though Winterthur is my adoptive home city, my heart still bleeds red and blue.Â
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