Semantic Kernel Agent Framework

Build and orchestrate AI agents with a flexible, open-source development framework.

by Microsoft · Scientific Computing

Executive Summary

The Semantic Kernel Agent Framework is a robust platform within the Semantic Kernel ecosystem, designed to empower developers in creating sophisticated AI agents and embedding agentic patterns directly into their applications. It offers comprehensive support for various agent types and advanced orchestration capabilities, facilitating the development of intelligent, autonomous solutions. This framework is a key component for building next-generation AI-driven applications. As an extension of the lightweight, open-source Semantic Kernel development kit, the Agent Framework enables seamless integration of cutting-edge AI models using popular programming languages like C#, Python, and Java. It provides essential tools such as contextual function selection for dynamic agent behavior, a unified API surface for consistent agent invocation, and a powerful plugin system to encapsulate existing APIs, including those defined by OpenAPI specifications. This modular approach allows for high flexibility and experimentation with diverse AI services.

Use Cases

  • Developing intelligent agents for Microsoft 365 applications and services.
  • Integrating advanced AI services and orchestration into custom applications.
  • Creating AI agents that can dynamically select and execute relevant functions based on context.
  • Extending AI capabilities by encapsulating existing APIs as plugins for agents.
  • Building multi-agent systems for complex problem-solving and automation.

Features

Intelligence

  • Contextual Function Selection: Enables AI agents to dynamically select and advertise only the most relevant functions or plugins based on the current operational context.
  • AI Service Integrations: Provides a wide range of connectors for integrating various AI services, including chat completion and embeddings, to build powerful and flexible agents.
  • Plugin System: Allows developers to encapsulate existing APIs, including those defined by OpenAPI specifications, into reusable plugins that AI agents can utilize as tools.
  • Unified Agent API: Offers a common API surface for invoking different agent types, enabling shared code and seamless operation across diverse agent implementations.

Technical Specifications

Architecture
Multi-agent framework
Deployment
SaaS
API Available
Yes

Infrastructure

  • Azure
  • AWS

AI/ML Stack

  • OpenAI GPT models
  • Mistral AI
  • Google AI
  • Amazon Bedrock
  • Azure OpenAI

Integrations

  • OpenAI
  • Mistral AI
  • Google AI
  • Amazon Bedrock
  • OpenAPI-defined services

Pricing

Model
Open-source
Starting Price
Free
Target Customer
Developers,AI Engineers,Enterprises
Free Trial
No (no credit card required)

About Microsoft

Microsoft Corporation is an American multinational technology conglomerate headquartered in Redmond, Washington. Founded in 1975, the company is a key player in the computer industry, known for its software, hardware, and services. It has expanded into areas such as cloud computing, artificial intelligence, video gaming, and Internet services.

Founded: 1975 · Headquarters: Redmond, Washington, United States · Employees: 10,001+ · Public

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