Apache Iceberg is an open table format designed to enhance data lake reliability and consistency. Developed by Netflix, it introduces a metadata abstraction layer on top of raw data files, enabling versioned and transactional access at scale. Iceberg separates data storage from metadata management, using a snapshot-based system to track files, partitions, and table state. Key features include ACID transactions, schema evolution, hidden partitioning, time travel capabilities, efficient updates and deletes, and performance optimization. While Iceberg offers significant advantages over traditional S3/Parquet setups, it does require additional operational overhead for metadata maintenance. Amazon Athena supports Iceberg tables, allowing users to leverage its features within AWS ecosystems. The new Amazon S3 Tables service further optimizes Iceberg usage by providing automated maintenance and improved performance for Iceberg-formatted data.