v.23.11Improvement

SHOW COLUMNS Displays MySQL Data Type Names by Default in MySQL Protocol Connections

SHOW COLUMNS now displays MySQL's equivalent data type name when the connection was made through the MySQL protocol. Previously, this was the case when setting use_mysql_types_in_show_columns = 1. The setting is retained but made obsolete. #56277 (Robert Schulze).
SHOW COLUMNS now automatically displays MySQL-equivalent data type names when connected via the MySQL protocol.

Why it matters

This feature improves compatibility and clarity for users connecting to ClickHouse through the MySQL protocol by showing familiar MySQL data type names in the SHOW COLUMNS output. It eliminates the need to manually enable this behavior via the use_mysql_types_in_show_columns setting, simplifying user experience.

How to use it

Connect to ClickHouse using the MySQL protocol as usual. The SHOW COLUMNS command will automatically display MySQL-equivalent data types. The prior setting use_mysql_types_in_show_columns is still supported but no longer required.