FairEmail – Privacy‑First Email App

What is FairEmail?

FairEmail is an Android email client designed for users who want to keep their communications private. Developed by Marcel Bokhorst of FairCode BV, the app is released under a free license and is built as an open‑source project. It does not bundle a calendar, contacts, or task manager, focusing solely on delivering a reliable email experience.

Main Features

• Privacy‑oriented design – the app avoids tracking and limits data collection.
• Unlimited accounts – you can add as many email accounts as you need, each with its own inbox or combined view.
• Conversation threading – messages are grouped by conversation for easier reading.
• Push notifications – receive new‑mail alerts without constant polling.
• Offline access – messages are stored locally so you can read and compose replies without an internet connection.
• Battery‑friendly operation – background sync is optimized to reduce power consumption.
• Low data usage – synchronization is efficient, which helps on limited data plans.
• Customizable text styling – adjust size, color and list formatting to suit your preferences.

How It Works

FairEmail connects to standard email protocols such as IMAP, POP3 and SMTP. After entering your account credentials, the app synchronizes messages and presents them in a unified inbox or separate folders, depending on your settings. Because the client does not implement proprietary protocols like Microsoft Exchange Web Services, it works best with services that support the standard protocols.

Practical Uses

• Managing multiple personal and work email addresses without mixing them.
• Reading and replying to messages while traveling on a limited‑data connection.
• Keeping a local copy of important correspondence for offline reference.
• Using an email client that respects privacy and does not embed advertising or analytics.

Installation Information

FairEmail can be installed directly from the Google Play Store. Search for the package name eu.faircode.email or the app name and follow the standard installation prompts. No additional configuration is required beyond providing your email credentials.

Things to Know Before Installing

• The app does not include a built‑in calendar, contacts, or task manager; you will need separate apps for those functions.
• Only standard email protocols are supported; if your organization relies on Microsoft Exchange ActiveSync, FairEmail will not be compatible.
• All core features are free, though some optional enhancements may be offered as paid add‑ons to support ongoing development.

Who May Find FairEmail Useful?

Anyone who values control over their personal data and prefers a lean, focused email client will appreciate FairEmail. It is especially suitable for users with multiple email accounts, those who need reliable offline access, and anyone looking for an open‑source alternative to mainstream email apps.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is FairEmail open source?

Yes, the source code is publicly available, allowing users to review and contribute to the project.

Can I use FairEmail with Gmail?

Gmail supports IMAP, so FairEmail can connect to Gmail accounts using the standard IMAP settings.

Does the app collect usage data?

FairEmail is built with privacy in mind and does not embed analytics or tracking services.

How are push notifications handled?

The app uses the Android push notification system to alert you of new mail without requiring constant background polling.