The latest version of the open-source desktop email client Thunderbird, specifically version 145, has introduced a significant update: support for Microsoft Exchange via the Exchange Web Services (EWS) API. While this current implementation focuses solely on email functionality, plans are in place to extend this support to include access to calendars and the address book in future updates.
This addition of Exchange support is part of a broader effort by Thunderbird to enhance compatibility with Microsoft products. In the pipeline is the integration of Microsoft Graph, a more modern API that supports a wider range of services including email, calendar, contacts, and files linked to Microsoft 365. The EWS API is considered legacy, and shifting to Microsoft Graph is a strategic move for Thunderbird as it evolves.
The journey towards native Exchange support has been gradual, illustrated by earlier versions which utilized various alternative solutions such as add-ons and bridges. With version 145, several enhancements have been made, including active mail synchronization, notifications, search capabilities, and improved account configuration via the Account Hub. This version also provides enhanced performance and reliability along with groundwork leading to the full adoption of Microsoft Graph.
Upcoming enhancements expected early next year include calendar and address book support, improved filtering options, folder management, message retention policies, and offline message downloads. Additional changes in Thunderbird 145 also encompass various feature improvements such as:
- Support for DNS over HTTPS
- Manual email configuration through the Account Hub
- Updates to add-on account creation
- Terminology changes (e.g., "Junk" to "Spam")
- Removal of 32-bit Linux x86 binaries
Many bugs have also been resolved in this update, including issues with message re-downloads, better ICS file handling, and improved functionality for new IMAP accounts.
For those interested in exploring these updates, Thunderbird 145 can be downloaded for Linux, Windows, and macOS via the official Thunderbird website. Users of the Thunderbird snap on Ubuntu can switch to monthly releases through their terminal with the command:
sudo snap install thunderbird --channel=monthly/stableThis action will ensure they receive all future monthly updates directly. For further details, one can refer to the Thunderbird 145 release notes and the latest security patches.