Textual words from them:
It’s our first step towards a more modern, more beautiful, and more customizable Thunderbird experience. We think you’re going to love it, and we are endlessly grateful for all of your support throughout the years 💙
Outlook is trying to force that on users as well…it’s really a waste of screen real estate for those of us who never use that toolbar.
The thin one that navigates between calendar, contacts, etc? That’s always been there in thunderbird.