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databricks Platform · Updated Sep 8, 2026

time_bucket SQL function aligns timestamps to fixed-width time buckets

time bucket returns the start of the fixed width interval a timestamp falls into, aligned to an origin you choose (for example, 15 minute or 3 month buckets).

What it does

time bucket returns the start of the fixed width interval a timestamp falls into, aligned to an origin you choose (for example, 15 minute or 3 month buckets). Use it instead of date trunc when the bucket width or start is not a calendar unit. Applies to: Databricks SQL Databricks Runtime 19 and above Returns the start of the fixed width time bucket that a timestamp falls into, aligned to an origin.

Why it matters

Reduces operational overhead and unlocks new capabilities for data teams on Databricks.

Architecture
Databricks Platform → Platform
In short

time bucket returns the start of the fixed width interval a timestamp falls into, aligned to an origin you choose (for example, 15 minute or 3 month buckets). Use it instead of date trunc when the bucket width or start is not a calendar unit.

Read the full documentation ↗
Key takeaway
time bucket returns the start of the fixed width interval a timestamp falls into, aligned to an origin you choose (for example, 15 minute or 3 month buckets).
2026-09-08-time-bucket-sql-function-aligns-timestamps-to-fixed-width-time-buckets Generated by the Databricks Updates Agent · browse all updates