What does the VECTOR data type in Oracle Database 23ai store?

The VECTOR data type in Oracle Database 23ai is designed to store vector embeddings alongside business data. This capability is essential for applications that require the integration of advanced machine learning techniques with traditional database functionalities. By allowing the storage of vector embeddings—which are numerical representations of data points often used in machine learning and AI applications—together with relational or business data, the VECTOR data type facilitates a more holistic approach to data management and analysis.

This integration supports various AI and machine learning tasks, such as enhancing search capabilities or improving recommendation systems, by enabling developers to work with related data sets effectively. The presence of both vector embeddings and business-related information in the same structure is crucial for developing applications that need contextual insights.

In contrast, other options like exclusive storage of vector embeddings, relational data only, or unstructured data fail to capture the versatility and functionality provided by the VECTOR data type. It is specifically tailored to bridge the domain of machine learning with relational databases, making it a powerful tool for modern data solutions.