1. Problem & Idea

People who like the speed of instant-messaging UIs hate the cognitive overhead of classic email clients: messy quoted text, long subjects, slow load times, ‘AI crap’ bolted on, etc. InboxThread proposes a minimalist, chat-style UI that still works with Gmail/IMAP and focuses on raw speed and cleanliness.

2. Forum / Community Signals

• Hacker News thread 44727594 ("Ask HN: A hassle-free chat-style email app?") – 80+ comments. Common themes: - Spike, Shortwave and MailTime feel bloated - People want a no-frills alternative - Several commenters said they would pay if someone built it.
• r/software post “Developing an e-mail client like a chat application” – commenters echo the same wishes for an uncluttered, WhatsApp-like email UI.

These discussions show real, articulated pain and no clear winner yet.

3. Existing Paid Competitors (proof people pay)