Thunderbird, the long-running open-source email client, is set to launch a paid "pro" tier with custom email addresses, appointment scheduling, file sharing tools, and AI-powered features, in a bid to compete with Gmail and other popular email providers.

The announcement was made by Thunderbird's managing director, Ryan Sipes, in a post on the Thunderbird Planning discussion group last Friday. While details are still scarce, Sipes revealed that the new services will be available under the @thundermail.com domain, with an option for @tb.pro addresses as well. Interested users can sign up for a beta waitlist on the Thundermail website.

The move marks a significant shift for Thunderbird, which has traditionally focused on providing an open-source email client without offering a corresponding email service. This has put it at a disadvantage compared to Gmail and other web-based email providers. However, with the rise of concerns about privacy and Big Tech, Thunderbird's pro tier could capitalize on the growing demand for alternative email solutions.

Thunderbird's decision to launch a pro tier is not surprising, given the renewed interest in the email client in recent years. After Mozilla ended development of the original Thunderbird client in 2012, a community group took over, and in 2020, development moved to Mozilla Foundation subsidiary MZLA Technology Corporation. Since then, the team has been modernizing the codebase and developing mobile clients.

The new pro tier will face stiff competition from established players like Gmail, Outlook, and ProtonMail, as well as FastMail. However, Thunderbird's commitment to open-source principles and user privacy could help it carve out a niche in the market. As Sipes noted, "It is our goal to eventually have a similar offering so that a 100 percent open source, freedom-respecting alternative ecosystem is available for those who want it."

While the exact pricing and tiers for the pro tier have not been announced, Sipes emphasized that there will be both free and paid options. This could help Thunderbird maintain its existing user base while attracting new users who are willing to pay for premium features.

The launch of Thunderbird's pro tier is still in the early stages, but it has the potential to shake up the email landscape. With its focus on open-source principles, user privacy, and AI-powered features, Thunderbird could become a compelling alternative to Gmail and other popular email providers.

As the email landscape continues to evolve, one thing is clear: users are looking for more options and greater control over their online data. With its pro tier, Thunderbird is poised to capitalize on this trend and establish itself as a major player in the email market.