The "Long-Term Support" release of Oracle Database 23ai adds interesting enhancements to SQL*Plus, making it even more reliable for developers and DBAs. Here is a brief overview of some of these new features and how they improve the efficiency and ease of database building and management.

1. Enhanced JSON Capabilities

        In line with JSON's increasing use in contemporary applications, Oracle Database 23c keeps adding more support for JSON data. Performance is improved and data handling is made simpler with new SQL*Plus features that enable smooth querying, updating, and indexing of JSON data stored in Oracle databases. Working with JSON data structures directly in SQL*Plus is made easier by JSON_TABLE enhancements and more straightforward JSON access procedures.

2. AutoML Integration

        The incorporation of AutoML, which brings machine learning capabilities straight into the database, is one of Oracle Database 23c's most notable features. Users can now train, assess, and implement machine learning models without hopping between platforms thanks to AutoML. Building and using models for analytics and predictions within SQL*Plus is now simpler thanks to improved SQL*Plus commands that allow AutoML tasks.

3. SQL Domains for Cleaner Code

        By enabling the direct definition of custom data types and validations in SQL, SQL Domains make code easier to comprehend and maintain. SQL Domains facilitate schema maintenance and improve data consistency by allowing users to standardize data formats that may be referenced across tables. Development time can be accelerated by these enhancements to SQL*Plus, which make it simpler to establish, utilize, and maintain SQL Domains.

4. Increased Efficiency with Improved SQL Macros

        Writing reusable SQL logic with SQL macros can enhance efficiency and cut down on redundancy in intricate queries. A number of improvements have been made to SQL Macros in Oracle Database 23c, which makes it simpler to create and utilize macros in SQL*Plus. Users working with big datasets and intricate queries may benefit from the increased performance and flexibility.

5. Better Error Management

        Additionally, SQL*Plus error management has been improved with Oracle Database 23c. Errors can now be captured, handled, and troubleshooted directly in SQL*Plus sessions thanks to new functionality. More context is provided by improved error messages, and script problems are easier to find and fix with additional debugging tools.

Conclusion

        SQL*Plus has grown even more potent with Oracle Database 23c, particularly with capabilities designed to integrate AI and machine learning. SQL*Plus is a more flexible tool thanks to the new JSON additions, AutoML support, SQL Domains, enhanced SQL Macros, and improved error handling. Oracle keeps improving SQL*Plus to meet the needs of contemporary databases and enable developers to work effectively on a single platform.