Apple mail message files

Apple Mail stores its message files in a proprietary format, which can make it challenging to access and manage them outside of the Mail app. However, there are a few ways to work with Apple Mail message files:

1. .eml files: When you export a message from Apple Mail, it saves it as a .eml file. These files are plain text files that contain the message headers and body. You can open and edit .eml files using any text editor or email client that supports the format.
2. .mbox files: Apple Mail stores its messages in a database file called MailData.mbox (or MailData2.mbox on newer systems). This file is a binary format that contains all the messages, including headers, bodies, and attachments. You can use third-party tools to convert .mbox files to other formats, such as .eml or .pst.
3. .sqlite files: Apple Mail uses a SQLite database to store its message data. The database file is usually located at ~/Library/Mail/V2/MailData.sqlitedb (or ~/Library/Mail/V3/MailData.sqlitedb on newer systems). You can use SQLite tools to query and manipulate the database, but be careful not to modify the file structure or data, as this can cause Mail to become unstable.

Some popular tools for working with Apple Mail message files include:

• MailMate: A third-party email client that can import and export Apple Mail message files.
• Emclient: A email client that can import and export Apple Mail message files, as well as convert them to other formats.
• DB Browser for SQLite: A free tool that allows you to browse and edit the SQLite database used by Apple Mail.
• Mbox2Eml: A command-line tool that converts .mbox files to .eml files.

Keep in mind that working with Apple Mail message files can be complex and may require technical expertise. If you're not comfortable with the process, it's recommended to use the built-in features of Apple Mail or seek assistance from a qualified IT professional.