MariaDB Foundation has released the latest release candidate, 12.2.1. The new release offers improvements and refinements in various areas, including deeper compatibility with established systems like MySQL and Oracle, as well as enhancements to the optimizer and performance tools. Additionally, it includes practical additions such as the long-awaited Oracle TO_NUMBER function and a TRUNC() function to round numbers down, making number conversion easier. The update also addresses several issues and expands MariaDB's built-in metadata capabilities, solidifying its position as a strong database option.

MariaDB 12.2.1 Release Candidate released

The MariaDB Foundation has released 12.2.1 as a release candidate. It marks an important step forward in the evolution of this widely used database management system.

This latest RC (Release Candidate) continues the pace of improvement, offering updates and refinements without interruption. One key area is deeper compatibility with established systems like MySQL and Oracle.

The optimizer has seen notable enhancements. Specifically added are hints for [NO_]ROWID_FILTER, [NO_]INDEX_MERGE, and implicit query block names, which are tools designed to help fine-tune performance effectively. These changes keep MariaDB sharp, helping it maintain its position as a strong database option.

Practical additions also include the long-awaited Oracle TO_NUMBER function (MDEV-20022), making number conversion easier for those already familiar with related syntax or working in mixed environments. And there's the new TRUNC() function (MDEV-20023) to round numbers down, useful for controlling precision.

Developers handling JSON data will find another welcome change: a lift on the previous 32-depth limit for certain functions allows for more complex structures. Alongside this, MariaDB expands its built-in metadata capabilities with new INFORMATION_SCHEMA tables and columns, making it even more powerful and adaptable.

Beyond these features, fixes have been implemented too. For instance, the problem with derived GROUP BY tables giving wrong out_rows estimates (MDEV-36321) is now fixed. There's also better visibility into triggers through the new INFORMATION_SCHEMA.TRIGGERED_UPDATE_COLUMNS view (MDEV-36996), and MariaDB handles stored procedure parameter defaults more consistently via the added PARAMETERS.PARAMETER_DEFAULT column (MDEV-37054).

In short, 12.2.1 brings tangible benefits: better performance potential for some queries, increased flexibility in handling data structures and metadata, and solidified compatibility with other major databases. It clearly continues building on MariaDB's strengths to remain a viable top-tier solution.

For more information, visit the linked announcement below:

MariaDB 12.2.1 Release Candidate now available

The MariaDB Foundation is pleased to announce the availability of MariaDB 12.2.1, the latest release candidate (RC) rolling release.

MariaDB 12.2.1 Release Candidate now available - MariaDB.org