The Microsoft Agent Framework, an open-source SDK designed to build intelligent, multi-agent systems for developers in .NET or Python, has just been unveiled by the Redmond giant. It is positioned as the next generation of both Semantic Kernel and AutoGen, built by the same teams to combine their strengths.
Microsoft said that it merges AutoGen’s simplicity in multi-agent orchestration with Semantic Kernel’s robustness in thread-based state management, telemetry, and type safety. The framework is currently in public preview, and feedback and issues are welcome on the GitHub repository.
The framework introduces new capabilities that are absent in its predecessors, including graph-based workflows, checkpointing, and human-in-the-loop support. For anyone not keeping up with the latest trends in artificial intelligence, agents are autonomous entities powered by large language models that can process inputs, make decisions, call tools/MCP servers, and generate responses. Essentially, they can do more stuff in one go before outputting the result. They can also be enhanced with agent threads for state management, context providers for memory, and middleware for action interception.
Another core capability of the new framework is Workflows. Microsoft said that Workflows are graph-based orchestrations that connect multiple agents and functions to perform complex, multi-step tasks. Workflow features include type-based routing, conditional logic, and checkpointing for reliability. They support various multi-agent orchestration patterns, specifically sequential, concurrent, hand-off, and Magentic.
The framework boosts enterprise-readiness with integration of the Foundry SDK, MCP SDK, A2A SDK, and M365 Copilot Agents. Microsoft said the framework is designed to bring together “research innovation and enterprise readiness into a single, open-source foundation.” The company said that future updates will continue to support community contributions via the GitHub repository, maintaining the open-source spirit.
You can download the framework now or check out the documentation.
Source: Microsoft