Hi Lancelot!
Apple is still allowing SpamSieve as a plug-in. I am currently using it and I just went over to Spamsieve’s website and they do indicate that their plug-in is compatible with Sonoma.
I do know a few years back, Apple changed the way they installed plug-ins, making the process a little more cumbersome, probably due to security concerns. However, there is still support.
The problem for the average consumer is that unless they want to shell out a monthly subscription, they are stuck with free hosting services like Apple, Google, Outlook for their email. So, that’s why it’s difficult to move to a host that does a better job of handling spam.
I think GMAIL does an excellent job handling spam. Apple seems to filter out most of the spam, but when I turn SpamSieve off, I get a few spam messages over a few days.
Perhaps it’s unfair, as you said, to be pushing eM Client to handle mail hosting inadequacies. However, the question I pose is whether it’s a security concern or just a personal “belief” over allowing plug-ins. If it’s the latter, I just look at it as another compelling feature that eM Client can offer its users in the same way PostBox, Apple and Outlook do.
As far as a store process, that’s handled on the SpamSieve website. Vetting process? SpamSieve already has an established reputation.
There are two points of view on this subject and certainly I respect and understand your viewpoint. Whatever eM Client decides is fine. They have already added a ton of new features that I have been asking for and am thrilled to be using. There’s already a request thread in place where users can vote on this issue and be taken under consideration.