Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0 Released: Empowering Multi-Agent Orchestration

Executive Summary

Key Takeaways

1. Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0 is production-ready, providing stable APIs and long-term support for .NET and Python.
2. It enables enterprise-grade multi-agent orchestration and supports multiple model providers.
3. Version 1.0 includes features battle-tested for backward compatibility, such as agent workflows and service connectors.
4. Migration assistants are available for teams transitioning from Semantic Kernel or AutoGen.

Core Features of Version 1.0

Agent Framework 1.0 boasts several key features, now marked as stable and supported. This includes single agent and service connectors for platforms like Microsoft Foundry, Azure OpenAI, and others. The framework offers middleware hooks for intercepting and transforming agent behavior. Pluggable memory architecture supports conversational history and vector-based retrieval.

Multi-Agent Orchestration and Workflows

Stable support is now available for orchestration patterns such as sequential, concurrent, and group chat. The framework supports streaming, checkpointing, and human-in-the-loop approvals. Declarative agents and workflows can be defined using YAML files, simplifying agent configuration and deployment. A2A protocol support enables cross-runtime agent collaboration.

New Preview Features

The release also includes preview features for early adoption. These include DevUI, a browser-based debugger for visualizing agent execution. Foundry Hosted Agent Integration allows running agents as managed services on Microsoft Foundry or Azure Durable Functions. Integration with Foundry Tools, Memory, and Observability features is also available, alongside adapters for CopilotKit and ChatKit.

Migration and Getting Started

Upgrading from RC packages to version 1.0 is a simple package version bump. New users can install the framework using pip install agent-framework (Python) or dotnet add package Microsoft.Agents.AI (.NET). Migration guides are available for those transitioning from Semantic Kernel or AutoGen, facilitating a smoother adoption process.

Bottom Line

Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0 marks a significant step towards production-ready multi-agent systems. By unifying Semantic Kernel and AutoGen, it offers a robust and versatile platform for developers. The stable APIs and comprehensive feature set make it a compelling choice for building complex AI applications.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Microsoft Agent Framework?

Microsoft Agent Framework is a unified SDK for building AI agents and orchestrating multi-agent workflows. It combines the strengths of Semantic Kernel and AutoGen, offering a stable and open-source platform for both .NET and Python developers.

What are the key features of Agent Framework 1.0?

Key features include stable APIs, multi-agent orchestration, multi-provider model support, cross-runtime interoperability, middleware hooks, agent memory management, and declarative workflows using YAML.

How do I get started with Microsoft Agent Framework?

You can install the SDK using pip install agent-framework for Python or dotnet add package Microsoft.Agents.AI for .NET. Quickstart guides and samples are available on GitHub to help you create your first agent.

Is there support for migrating from Semantic Kernel or AutoGen?

Yes, migration assistants and detailed walkthroughs are available to help teams transition from Semantic Kernel or AutoGen to Microsoft Agent Framework. These guides analyze existing code and generate step-by-step migration plans.

What is A2A in the context of Microsoft Agent Framework?

A2A (Agent-to-Agent) protocol support enables cross-runtime agent collaboration, allowing agents running in different frameworks to coordinate using structured messaging. This facilitates building more complex and distributed AI systems.

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Source: https://devblogs.microsoft.com/agent-framework/microsoft-agent-framework-version-1-0/