VillageSQL Launches: A Drop-In MySQL Fork Bringing Extensions and AI to the Core

TL;DR

VillageSQL is a drop-in, open-source fork of MySQL that introduces a true extension framework, enabling permissionless innovation for AI-era workloads. It allows developers to add custom data types and functions - with vector indexing and search on the roadmap - bringing MySQL closer to PostgreSQL-style extensibility without waiting for core upstream changes.

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VillageSQL is an open-source tracking fork of MySQL designed as a drop-in replacement.

VillageSQL introduces an extension framework that supports custom data types and custom SQL functions, with custom indexes planned.

Extensions are deployed as external repositories or compiled dynamic libraries and installed using the SQL command INSTALL EXTENSION.

Initial extensions include support for UUIDs, network address types (IPv6 and MAC), cryptographic functions, complex numbers, and AI prompting via SQL functions.

VillageSQL is currently available in alpha and is intended for experimentation rather than production workloads.

VillageSQL has been introduced as an open-source tracking fork of MySQL that adds an extension framework to the database. The project follows upstream MySQL releases and is described as a drop-in replacement. The extension framework enables developers to create custom data types and SQL functions, with support for custom indexes planned in future updates. VillageSQL is currently available in alpha.

The extension framework packages extended types, functions, and planned indexes into a single logical unit. Extensions can be distributed as external repositories or compiled dynamic libraries. Installation requires copying the extension into the designated directory and running the SQL command INSTALL EXTENSION. The framework operates alongside MySQL’s existing plugin and component systems.

Initial extensions include support for UUIDs, network address types such as IPv6 and MAC, cryptographic functions, complex number data types, and AI prompting through SQL functions. Vector indexing and optimized vector search are listed on the project's roadmap. VillageSQL states compatibility with MySQL 8.4 applications and tools. A C++ SDK is provided to support extension development.

VillageSQL must currently be built from source. Pre-built binaries and official Docker images are not yet available. According to the roadmap, planned additions include custom indexes, variable-length custom types, lifecycle management for installed extensions, aggregate functions, Windows support, installation tooling, analytical capabilities, and a managed cloud service. The alpha release is intended for development and experimentation rather than production use.