[actuator]

Google Apps version of Gmail or the Microsoft equivalent?

You can use your own domain and I don't think data there is used for ads.

I am really scared to put my trust in a small provider from a data security and availability view. Security is really really hard and emails are a critical part of your online and offline identity. YMMV

[MeinBlutIstBlau]

I think too many people get up in arms about privacy but when push comes to shove, these smaller people will most likely cave to governments.

I think HN just dislikes the idea of google maintaining a service.

[actuator]

As much as I would want small players to succeed. Email is one of the spaces where it just doesn't make much sense to trust the small guy.