As AI workloads become standard in modern applications, engineering teams face a familiar dilemma: MySQL is already the system of record, but vector search typically requires bolting on a separate database. That means two security models, two observability stacks, and inevitable data consistency headaches.

A concept presented at Pre-FOSDEM 2026 by René Cannaò (ProxySQL founder) and Alkin Tezuysal (Altinity) proposes a cleaner path: keep everything in MySQL, but add vector capabilities through a plugin called MyVector, with ProxySQL serving as the unified …

Semantic Search with SQL Simplicity and Operational Control

Introduction

Vector search is redefining how we work with unstructured and semantic data. Until recently, integrating it into traditional relational databases like MySQL required external services, extra infrastructure, or awkward workarounds. That changes with the MyVector plugin — a native vector indexing and search extension purpose-built for MySQL.

Whether you’re enhancing search for user-generated content, improving recommendation systems, or building AI-driven assistants, MyVector makes it possible to store, index, and search vector embeddings directly inside MySQL — with full support for SQL syntax, indexing, and filtering.

What Is MyVector?

The MyVector plugin adds native support …