Mozilla develops native Thunderbird email app for iOS

Mozilla is developing a native Thunderbird email application specifically for iPhone and iPad. Unlike the Android version, which utilized the K-9 Mail project, the iOS version is being built from the ground up to ensure better speed, reliability, and integration with Apple devices.

Key features currently in development include automated account setup for services such as Google and Microsoft, and a background synchronization system designed to keep inboxes updated without excessive battery consumption. The app will feature a streamlined inbox layout and a message editor with formatting tools.

To facilitate development and user feedback, the team is implementing an experimental feature flag system. This will allow advanced users to test new features early and enable outside contributors to assist in the open-source development process. While a formal App Store release date has not been set, the team aims to provide an initial version for community testing within the next few months.