The first version of Thunderbird for Android released

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Thunderbird for Android

After almost a year and a half since the announcement of the merger of the Thunderbird and K-9 Mail projects, it was announced the release of the first stable version of Thunderbird for Android that integrates the functions and technologies of K-9 Mail, In addition, K-9 Mail will be renamed “Thunderbird for Android” and will begin shipping under new branding.

The decision to merge was facilitated due to the similar goals and ideas of both projects on what a modern mobile application for working with email should look like. Both projects are also committed to privacy, adhere to open standards, and are developed using an open development process.

Following the merger of both projects, Thunderbird for Android inherits K-9 Mail numbering and has been released as version 8.0. This version retains key K-9 Mail features such as OpenPGP encryption support, multiple account management, and the option of light and dark themes.

On Features of Thunderbird for Android, we can find that it retains the core of K-9 Mail, but with improvements that seek to align it with the user experience of the desktop version of Thunderbird:

  • Familiar interface and improved functionality: Changes have been implemented in appearance and some functionality to make the mobile version more similar to the desktop version of Thunderbird.
  • OpenPGP Support: The app continues to offer end-to-end encryption with OpenPGP, a key feature for users seeking privacy in their communications.
  • Customization options: Includes light and dark themes, providing a visual experience adaptable to user preferences.

The union of Thunderbird and K-9 Mail not only makes it easier to develop a mobile version of Thunderbird, but also presents advantages for both user and developer communities.

Besides that, The merger allows the K-9 Mail team to access Thunderbird's resources, accelerating development and expanding the reach of the app. Both Thunderbird and K-9 Mail share a focus on privacy, open development, and building a modern mobile email app.

For Thunderbird, the merger has provided a fast track to launching a mobile version without starting from scratch, taking advantage of the advanced development of K-9 Mail.

As for the Improvements that have been implemented from K-9 Mail to Thunderbird for Android 8:

  • The Thunderbird for Android interface has been redesigned to closely resemble the desktop experience of Thunderbird.
  • Mail folders are now laid out according to the third version of Material Design, which brings a modern and clean look.
  • One of the most useful features is the ability to transfer settings from K-9 Mail to Thunderbird and from Thunderbird Desktop to Thunderbird for Android.
  • Migrating from the desktop version is easy: the user only needs to scan a QR code on their mobile device to sync settings, facilitating a seamless transition between devices.
  • Support for the OAuth authentication protocol has been improved, including compatibility with email services such as Fastmail and others.
  • Folder management is now more robust, allowing users to organize and access their emails more efficiently, especially useful for those with complex email accounts or high volumes of messages.
  • The visual distinction between read and new messages has been optimized, allowing better identification of unread messages and improving navigation between emails.

If you want to know more about it, you can consult the details In the following link.

Download and get Thunderbird for Android

For those interested in Thunderbird for Android 8, it runs on mobile devices running Android 5 and above and is offered on the following platforms:

As for the import settings, it is available this guide which explains both importing from K-9 Mail or Thunderbird to the desktop.