The podcast covers topics like Exchange support for Android, add-ons for Android, migration from K-9 Mail, CalDAV and CardDAV for Android, Thunderbird for Android sync, Exchange support on desktop, threaded conversations view, full sender name column, and Thunderbird webmail
Thunderbird is working on introducing exchange support for Android and desktop to cater to user demand.
Challenges exist in implementing Thunderbird add-ons on Android due to current code base and architecture limitations.
Deep dives
Exchange Support for Thunderbird for Android and Desktop
A significant point discussed was the introduction of exchange support for Thunderbird for Android and desktop. This support is being developed using Rust libraries in a modular and reusable manner, with plans to open-source them for broader usage beyond Thunderbird. The aim is to provide essential exchange support for users on both platforms, catering to the high demand for this feature.
Challenges and Considerations for Thunderbird Add-ons on Android
The podcast delved into the topic of Thunderbird add-ons availability on Android. While there is a desire to leverage desktop Thunderbird add-ons within the Android app, implementing this faces challenges. The current code base and architecture, focusing on K9 for Android, present obstacles in integrating add-ons seamlessly. The potential consideration of creating a separate add-on space specific for Thunderbird on Android was also mentioned, awaiting insights from Firefox's recent add-on implementation.
Transition Plan and Technical Improvements for Thunderbird for Android Users
Moreover, the plan for transitioning K9 users to Thunderbird for Android was highlighted. The strategy involves maintaining parallel apps initially to support user preferences and technical limitations. Efforts are directed towards enabling seamless migration via Mozilla accounts and exploring one-tap transition options. Additionally, technical developments such as global message database restructuring and backend enhancements are underway to enhance user experience and expand functionality.
The Thunderbird team has resumed our monthly Community Office Hours sessions, and the most recent was an open forum Q&A that focused largely on K-9 Mail and Thunderbird for Android. We also answered some of your questions about Thunderbird for Desktop, including Exchange support (it's coming)! Here's a lightly edited version of that session for you to listen to.
If you have questions for us to answer in a future Office Hours sessions, just send an email to officehours@thunderbird.net.
00:00 Intro 02:00 Exchange Support for Android? 03:22 Add-ons For Android? 06:30 Upgrade Path From K-9 Mail? 12:06 Android: CalDAV and CardDAV? 16:11 Mozilla Sync & Thunderbird for Android? 22:06 Exchange Support on Desktop? 24:35 Proper Threaded & Conversations View? 30:55 Full Sender Name Column? 33:03 What About Thunderbird Webmail?