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In the fast-evolving landscape of Generative AI, a fundamental truth has emerged: Your AI is only as good as your data. At AI World 2025, Oracle took a massive leap forward in bridging the gap between raw data and intelligent action with the announcement of Oracle AI Database 26ai.

This isn't just an incremental update. Oracle AI Database 26ai represents a shift from "adding AI features" to "architecting AI into the core" of data management.

From Database to AI-Native Powerhouse

Oracle AI Database 26ai succeeds the 23ai release, consolidating a year of rapid innovation into a cohesive, production-ready platform. As Juan Loaiza, EVP of Oracle Database Technologies, put it: “We enable our customers to easily deliver trusted AI insights, innovations, and productivity for all their data, everywhere.”

The standout philosophy here is "AI for Data." Instead of the risky and complex process of moving your sensitive business data to external AI services, Oracle brings the AI directly to the data.

Key Innovations at a Glance

• Agentic AI as a First-Class Citizen: One of the most talked-about features is the Select AI Agent. This framework allows developers to build and manage "AI Agents" that can perform multi-step reasoning, fetch real-time context, and execute tasks—all within the secure perimeter of the database.

• Unified Hybrid Vector Search: You no longer have to choose between searching structured data and unstructured "vectors." 26ai allows you to blend relational, text, JSON, and spatial data in a single query.

• Autonomous AI Lakehouse: Supporting the Apache Iceberg open table format, Oracle is breaking down silos. This allows you to run high-performance analytics and AI across OCI, AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud without moving data.

• Quantum-Resistant Security: In an era of evolving threats, Oracle has implemented NIST-approved quantum-resistant algorithms to protect data-in-flight and at-rest, future-proofing your most valuable assets.

No Heavy Lifting Required

Perhaps the best news for current users is the path to adoption. Oracle AI Database 26ai is a long-term support release. If you are already on 23ai, transitioning is as simple as applying the October 2025 release update; it's that easy. There is no database upgrade or application re-certification required, and these advanced AI features are included at no additional charge.

The era of "fusing" AI and data has arrived. With Oracle AI Database 26ai, the world’s most mission-critical data is now the world’s most intelligent data.

Oracle APEX 24.2 is more than a routine release—it’s a major step forward in how developers build, manage, and scale enterprise applications. From deeper visibility into database dependencies to smarter workflows, native JSON handling, enhanced text messaging, and seamless Fusion integrations, this release focuses on clarity, reusability, and intelligent development.

Let’s break down the five most impactful features introduced in Oracle APEX 24.2 and why they matter.

1. Database Object Dependencies: Full Visibility, Zero Guesswork

Large APEX applications often rely on hundreds of database objects—tables, packages, views, and functions. When backend changes occur, tracking down broken pages or invalid SQL can quickly become painful.

APEX 24.2 introduces a Database Object Dependencies utility that solves this problem head-on.

What’s New:

• Scan an entire application (or specific pages) to identify database dependencies

• Visualize dependencies in a hierarchical tree format

• Instantly navigate to the exact page and component using a given database object

• Separate system dependencies from custom schema dependencies

• Filter and search dependencies for faster analysis

CI/CD Friendly:

A new PL/SQL API (APEX_APP_OBJECT_DEPENDENCY) allows teams to programmatically scan applications during deployments. This means dependency checks and invalid SQL detection can be automated as part of your CI/CD pipeline—no App Builder login required.

2. Workflow Enhancements: Modular, Reusable, and Recoverable

Oracle APEX’s native workflow engine continues to mature in 24.2 with enhancements that focus on reuse, flexibility, and administrative control.

Key Improvements:

• Invoke Workflow Activity
  Call one workflow from another, enabling true modular workflow design. Shared logic can now live in a single reusable workflow.

• Input, Output, and IN OUT Parameters
  Pass data into child workflows and return values—perfect for chaining business processes.

• Resume Workflows at Any Activity
  Administrators can suspend a workflow, modify variables, and resume it from any step—upstream or downstream.

• Copy Workflows Across Applications
  When copying a workflow, all dependencies (such as task definitions) are automatically included.

• Enhanced Console & Wizard Pages
  Workflow pages now use modern template components and modal dialogs, making customization easier and cleaner.

3. Native JSON Data Sources: No Flattening Required

Working with JSON data used to mean parsing, flattening, and storing it in temporary tables. Oracle APEX 24.2 removes that overhead entirely.

What You Can Do Now:

• Define JSON Data Sources directly in Shared Components

• Automatically convert nested JSON into rows and columns using data profiles

• Use JSON sources in reports, charts, and forms

• Perform DML operations directly on JSON data

• Integrate JSON sources with Automations, LOVs, and report queries

APEX handles parsing, transformation, and updates—whether the JSON comes from REST APIs or database JSON columns.

4. Text Message Enhancements: Clearer Syntax & Built-In Localization

Text messages in APEX 24.2 are now easier to manage, safer to maintain, and better suited for global applications.

Improvements:

• Named Substitution Parameters
  Replace positional placeholders (%0, %1) with named parameters like %USER% and %EMPLOYEE%.

• Improved PL/SQL API Usage
  Use APEX_LANG.GET_MESSAGE with named parameters for cleaner, more readable code.

• Automatic Right-to-Left Language Support
  No JavaScript required—text direction is handled automatically for languages like Arabic and Hebrew.

5. Fusion Application Extensions: APEX as an Enterprise Extension Layer

Oracle APEX 24.2 makes extending Fusion Applications faster and more accessible than ever.

The 3-Step Integration:

1. Connect APEX to OCI tenancy

2. Integrate APEX with Fusion Applications

3. Create an extension app using the wizard

APEX automatically configures authentication and REST integrations, allowing developers to:

• Pull data from Fusion modules (HCM, ERP, etc.)

• Run APEX workflows on Fusion data

• Assign tasks, approvals, and notifications

• Store only what’s needed locally while keeping Fusion as the system of record

Bonus: AI-Driven Development in APEX 24.2

Beyond the five core features, APEX 24.2 also unlocks Generative Development (GenDev) capabilities:

• AI Configurations Shared Component

• Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) data sources

• Generate Text with AI Dynamic Action

• AI-assisted schema and SQL generation

• Vector search support using Oracle Database 23ai

These tools make it easier to build applications that are context-aware, intelligent, and user-centric.

Final Thoughts

Oracle APEX 24.2 isn’t just about new features—it’s about developer confidence, architectural clarity, and intelligent low-code design. Whether you’re managing complex workflows, integrating enterprise systems, or building modern JSON-driven apps, this release removes friction at every layer.

If you’re already using APEX, 24.2 is a must-upgrade. If you’re new, this release makes the case clearer than ever: low-code doesn’t mean low-power.

I'm proud to announce that I've earned the Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) AI Foundations Associate Certification! 

This certification offered a strong introduction to the fundamental concepts of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), with a particular emphasis on their practical application within Oracle Cloud Infrastructure. It serves as an excellent entry point for learners who want to deepen their understanding of AI and ML — even without extensive technical experience.

Throughout this course, I explored a wide range of topics that helped me strengthen my grasp of the AI ecosystem in the cloud:

• Core Concepts: Gained a comprehensive overview of basic AI and Machine Learning (ML) principles, including deep learning fundamentals and their significance in developing intelligent systems.

• Modern AI: Studied the growing importance of Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs) in modern computing, and how they are reshaping industries and human interaction with technology.

• Cloud Application: Learned to apply these technologies within Oracle Cloud Infrastructure (OCI) to create scalable, efficient, and responsible AI-driven solutions.
  
  

One of the most impressive aspects of this course was its clarity and accessibility. The material was thoughtfully structured to guide learners through a step-by-step process, starting with basic principles before moving into more advanced AI and ML topics. Even complex ideas were made easy to understand through Oracle’s engaging explanations, visual learning modules, and practical examples.

I found the course both straightforward and highly informative, which made the learning journey enjoyable from start to finish. It’s truly an amazing course by Oracle, and I’m deeply grateful to have access to these educational opportunities that make advanced technologies approachable to all learners.

Earning this certification has deepened my technical understanding of AI, machine learning, and cloud computing, while also reinforcing the importance of ethical and responsible AI design. I’m eager to put this expertise into practice by leveraging OCI’s powerful ecosystem to build and deploy innovative solutions that merge technology with purpose.

This certification marks an important milestone in my ongoing journey of growth and discovery within the world of artificial intelligence and cloud technology. I look forward to continuing to learn, innovate, and contribute to the advancement of AI.

Setting up Oracle Database on Oracle VM VirtualBox is a great way to practice database management in a controlled environment. In this guide, we’ll walk through how to create a new user, assign roles, and log in with the new credentials inside your Oracle Database.

Step 1: Checking for Version Number

Run the following command in SQL*Plus to check the version number:

Step 2: Create a New User

Start by connecting to your Oracle Database as SYSDBA. Once connected, use the following SQL command to create a new user:

Explanation:

• C##free → the username (the prefix C## is required for common users in a multitenant database).

• IDENTIFIED BY free → sets the initial password.

• DEFAULT TABLESPACE users → assigns the user to the users tablespace.

• QUOTA UNLIMITED ON users → allows unlimited space in that tablespace.

• PASSWORD EXPIRE → forces the user to change the password upon first login.

 Step 6: Verification

To verify your user setup, try creating a simple table:

CREATE TABLE sample_table (

    id NUMBER PRIMARY KEY, 

    name VARCHAR(50)

);

If this executes successfully, your user setup and configuration are complete.

Summary

In this setup, you:

1. Verified the Oracle Database version.

2. Created a new common user and role.

3. Granted essential privileges and connection access.

4. Logged in and set a new password successfully.

You’re now ready to explore Oracle SQL under your new user account in VirtualBox!

The ACE Associate to me represents:

• A commitment to lifelong learning in Oracle technologies.

• A responsibility to amplify knowledge, not keep it to myself.

• A reminder that community and collaboration are at the heart of meaningful tech development.

Being a member of the Oracle ACE community links me to a global network of experts, innovators, and dedicated professionals who inspire me every day. This is only the beginning, and I am grateful to everyone who has supported me.

The Oracle ACE Associate Award serves as a reminder that sharing your knowledge can have a significant impact. Every contribution you make, whether it's writing a blog, organizing a webinar, or answering questions in a forum, helps build a stronger, smarter IT community.

Here’s to growth, giving back, and embracing every opportunity to learn.

In the ever-changing world of technology, it's tempting to become fixated on what's new – the most recent frameworks, cloud integrations, and AI models.  However, I recently took a step back and reviewed the fundamental principles that every developer and tech enthusiast should understand.  So, I completed the Oracle Database Explorer Badge.

 Despite my experience working with databases on a variety of projects, I thought it was crucial to brush up on my fundamental understanding.  As time passes, we often use shortcuts or tips from tutorials to get past issues, but the real impact comes from knowing why something works. 

Oracle Enterprise Manager is a complete IT management solution made to assist companies in effectively managing their cloud-based or traditional IT environments. It simplifies setup, support, and maintenance by providing a comprehensive solution for controlling everything from hardware to apps.

Oracle Enterprise Manager's main characteristics include: 

• Cloud Lifecycle Management: Enterprise Manager makes it simple and quick to set up, monitor, and support both cloud and conventional Oracle IT environments, including hardware and apps.

• Optimizing IT Investment: To provide the finest solutions for intelligent management of the Oracle stack and designed systems, the tool makes use of Oracle's built-in management capabilities. Additionally, it helps organizations maximize their IT expenditures by integrating Oracle's knowledge base with each client environment in real time.

• All-inclusive Management: Enterprise Manager gives companies the ability to control everything, including disks and apps, resulting in a simplified and effective method of managing IT in both traditional and cloud systems.

• Increasing Efficiency: Oracle Enterprise Manager's real-time connection with Oracle's knowledge base makes IT operations much more efficient, resulting in quicker problem-solving and improved overall service.