Thunderbird to Offer Limited iOS Version via Apple's TestFlight

By Netvora Tech News

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The makers of the popular email client Thunderbird have announced that they will be offering a limited iOS version via Apple's TestFlight program. The move marks a significant step forward in the development of the email software, which has been available for desktop platforms for years.

Limited iOS Version

The limited iOS version of Thunderbird is still in its early stages and will not be available in the App Store. Instead, the developers will be using public TestFlight links to distribute the app. This allows users to install the app outside of the App Store, but Apple does set certain standards for apps distributed in this way.

At the moment, the iOS version can only display a start screen, but the first public version will enable users to set up an account manually. The Inbox will also be displayed, showing sender, subject, and the first few lines of the email. While this is not yet a fully functional email client, it meets the minimum requirements set by Apple, according to the developers.

JMAP Support and Future Developments

Thunderbird for iOS is being developed with JMAP support, a modern email stack that allows for the addition of features that were previously missing in email. The developers explain that they are designing the code architecture in a way that makes it easy to add IMAP support, which they hope to do soon.

"We're designing the code architecture in a way that makes it easy to add IMAP support, so that will ideally follow shortly," the developers said.

What's Next?

The limited iOS version of Thunderbird is currently only available through public TestFlight links, and users can expect to see more features and functionality added in the coming weeks and months. With JMAP support and the promise of IMAP support on the horizon, it's an exciting time for Thunderbird fans.