Mozilla Launches Internet Mail and Communications Initiative

In order to stimulate innovation in Internet mail and communications, Mozilla recently has announced a new initiative. It also wants to nurture a robust developer ecosystem to improve the traditional Firefox web browser through innovations. The company plans to develop Internet communications software based on its Thunderbird product, code and brand.

Dr. David Ascher, currently CTO and VP Engineering of ActiveState, will join Mozilla to establish a new company focused on mail. Ascher has been an active member of the Mozilla community since year 2000, initially as the lead of Komodo, a Mozilla-based integrated development environment (IDE). He is not only a leader in the open source community, but also a director of the Python Software Foundation.

“Innovating in mail and communications advances our vision of choice across the spectrum of Internet software,” said Mitchell Baker, Chair, Mozilla Foundation. “David has been a respected member of the Mozilla community for many years and we're excited that he is joining Mozilla to lead this important effort.”(Mozilla website)

Millions of people in the world rely on Thunderbird for mail application. Many people will worry about this change affecting their normal usability. But nothing will change for current Thunderbird users. Mozilla promised that they will continue providing Thunderbird users with regular security and stability updates while establishing its new initiative.

In July 2007, after making an active public discussion, the Mozilla Foundation board approved the creation of a distinct new Mozilla Foundation subsidiary. It will help to develop, innovate and improve Internet mail and communication software. Mozilla will spend $3 million US dollars on the establishment of the new company.