Mimestream

Mimestream is a native macOS email application designed specifically for Gmail. It uses the Gmail API instead of the IMAP protocol, providing access to Gmail-specific features like labels, categories, and synced signatures within a streamlined macOS app experience.

★★★★★

5.0(1 ratings)

• Native macOS Client. The app is written in Swift and integrates directly with the operating system. This approach ensures fast performance and lower resource consumption compared to web-based applications. The interface follows macOS design conventions.
• Gmail API Connection. Mimestream communicates with Google's servers using the official Gmail API. This method allows support for advanced features not available through the standard IMAP protocol, offering functionality nearly identical to the Gmail web interface.
• Categorized Inbox. The app replicates Gmail's category system (Primary, Social, Promotions, Updates, Forums). Messages are automatically organized into these sections, making it easier to manage email flow and prioritize reading.
• Complete Label Management. Supports all Gmail label operations: creation, editing, application, and removal. Labels are synced bidirectionally with your Gmail account, maintaining organization across all devices.
• Multiple Account Support. Allows adding and managing several Gmail accounts within a single app window. The user can switch between accounts and view unified or separate notifications.
• Signature and Alias Sync. Email signatures configured in Gmail's web settings are synced and available for use in the app. Sent email aliases are also loaded from the account settings.
• Offline Mode. Messages are cached locally, allowing reading and searching even without an internet connection. Actions performed offline are queued and executed when connectivity is restored..
• Native and Fast Search. Search utilizes the power of the Gmail API, delivering comprehensive and accurate results. Gmail search filters and operators are supported, providing a powerful search experience.
• Extensive Keyboard Shortcuts. The app includes a wide range of customizable keyboard shortcuts for common actions. These shortcuts adhere to macOS usage patterns and can significantly speed up workflow.
• System Notifications. Displays native macOS push notifications for new emails. Notifications can be configured per account and category type, with quick actions like archiving or marking as read directly from the notification.
• Message Tracking Indicators. Shows visual indicators for email threads where the user is a CC or BCC recipient, helping to quickly identify one's role in a conversation.
• Link and File Previews. Integration with macOS Quick Look for previewing common attachments without opening external apps. Links can also be previewed before opening.
• Device-Centric Privacy Policy. Credentials and email data are stored locally on the user's device. The app connects directly to Gmail's servers without intermediary proxy servers, and does not collect or sell email data.
• Account Picker for Replies. When composing a new email or replying, a dropdown menu allows quickly selecting which account or alias to send the message from, streamlining the management of multiple identities.
• Message Flagging and Quick Archival. Includes one-click buttons and gestures for archiving and flagging (read/unread) actions. It follows Gmail's philosophy of keeping the inbox empty (Inbox Zero).

Development of Mimestream began in 2019. The primary creator is Neil Jhaveri, a former Apple engineer who worked on iCloud. The project was born from a personal need for a native macOS email client that offered a complete Gmail experience without the limitations of IMAP. The first beta version was released in 2020. The app is written primarily in Swift, the native programming language for development within the Apple ecosystem.

Alternatives to Mimestream:

Mailbird

Mailbird is an email application for Windows and Mac that enables management of multiple accounts, including Gmail and Outlook, within a single interface.

Price: Free   Size: 285 MB   Version: 3.0.53.0   OS: Windows, MacOS