Something intriguing has been going on in the open-source database world lately. Namely, EdgeDB’s team has announced a rebrand to Gel.
For those unfamiliar with EdgeDB, it is a cutting-edge relational open-source database that uses the PostgreSQL query engine, enhancing it with a unique approach to data schema that mirrors how developers conceptualize their data structures—essentially viewing them as objects connected by links.
While the name change might be a bit surprising at first, according to the devs, the motivation behind this move is:
- Clarity: The word “edge” sometimes led people to assume the technology was tied to edge computing or was primarily a graph database. In reality, it is neither. The new name, Gel, sidesteps this confusion.
- Simplicity: Short, memorable, and easy to say, Gel underscores the idea of seamlessly integrating software and databases. It conveys how the product “gels” everything together—schemas, data, and applications—into a cohesive system.
It is also important to note that the company itself has not changed. The same team and mission remain in place, and all tools and libraries have been updated to align with the new naming. In other words, Gel’s core function remains the same.
At the same time, the new Gel 6.0 release introduces a raft of new features, including complete SQL support not just in PostgreSQL protocol mode but also natively in the Gel protocol. Additionally, Drizzle now supports Gel, opening the door for more robust integrations with popular tools like Prisma and SQLAlchemy.
For more information, see the official announcement.
