Release a Minimal Version of Thunderbird: Thunderbird Basic

[Anonymous]

Features like newsgroups, chats and RSS feeds have their place, but they're not what most people care about in an email app. These days, most people want only stuff like having their calendar and contacts other than email in an email client. So release a minimal version of Thunderbird called Thunderbird Basic alongside side Thunderbird with just these core functionality.

Benefits to the users:

• Uncluttered UI: By stripping away unnecessary features, Thunderbird's user interface can become cleaner and more intuitive.
• Security: Every additional feature introduces a attack surface. By removing unnecessary features, it reduces the risk of potential attack surface.
• App Footprint: A minimal version of Thunderbird will have a smaller memory footprint and a reduced app size.

Impact on Current Users' Experience:

This proposal won't affect existing Thunderbird users. Instead, it will be released as another variant alongside Thunderbird, similar to how Firefox and Firefox Developer Edition coexist. Those who prefer a basic email experience can install Thunderbird Basic, while others can continue using the full-featured version.

Acknowledgement:

The idea is inspired by F-Droid release a simpler version called F-Droid Basic and Debian packaging a stripped-down version of KeePassXC with only core features.

[Jon]

Thanks for submitting an idea to the Mozilla Connect community! Your idea is now open to votes (aka kudos) and comments.

[RJRJ]

I totally agree. The simpler the better. I just want to read my emails, when presented, click to open a link, and move the emails to sub folders. That is it.

[glen_at_drc]

The newsgroups, chats and RSS feeds, and even calendar can be Mozilla maintained addons which the installer can offer.