Oracle reasserts commitment to MySQL with latest release

Oracle's latest MySQL release seeks to reassure users

Oracle has released MySQL Cluster 7.1 at an event in California and reasserted its commitment to the future of the MySQL open source software.

MySQL Cluster 7.1 has a new Cluster Manager that automates database management, and new connection tools for Java to allow developers to build new applications for the platform.

"Beating the competition to market matters for every business," said Edward Screven, chief corporate architect at Oracle.

"With the new MySQL Cluster 7.1 release enhancing high-availability and simplifying management of real-time telecom and embedded applications, companies can deliver new services faster and more reliably."

Screven added that Oracle will increase investment in MySQL and position it to compete directly with Microsoft's SQL platform.

However, a sceptical crowd at the O'Reilly MySQL Conference in Santa Clara did not greet Screven's announcement with enthusiasm. Open source vendors were also quick to disparage Oracle's position.

"Oracle has already cut back the MySQL roadmap to avoid competing with its own database management system, and will try and attract MySQL developers onto a path to costly proprietary software and vendor lock-in," said Roger Burkhardt, president of open source database management company Ingres.

"Oracle's customers understand the company's true intentions, and are moving to alternative solutions that are more flexible and cost-effective. Many ISVs are moving away from Oracle/MySQL in favour of a genuine open source solution.”

Fears over Oracle's plans for MySQL were one of the original stumbling blocks behind the European Union's approval of the merger with Sun Microsystems, and open source enthusiasts are growing increasingly worried about its future, particularly in light of the sudden departure of James Gosling this weekend.