Semantic Kernel
learn.microsoft.com
Microsoft SDK for integrating LLMs and agents into apps.
Quick Information
- Category:
- AI Agents & Automation
- Pricing:
- Free
- Platforms:
- .NET, Python, Java
- Free Plan:
- Yes
- API Available:
- Yes
- Last Verified:
- October 2026
What Is Semantic Kernel?
Semantic Kernel is Microsoft's open-source SDK for integrating large language models and agents into applications. It has been MIT-licensed since March 2023 and ships for .NET, Python and Java. Its status has changed. Microsoft Agent Framework (MAF) reached version 1.0 on April 3, 2026 (one source says April 2), is MIT-licensed, supports .NET and Python (one source adds Go in public preview), and is the direct successor to Semantic Kernel and AutoGen.
Sources say Microsoft continues to support Semantic Kernel v1.x with critical bug and security fixes, while feature development has largely stopped. Microsoft has committed to supporting v1.x for at least a year after MAF's general availability, with no fixed end date published. For new .NET projects, several sources recommend starting on Agent Framework directly. Existing apps keep running, and MAF includes a compatibility layer to convert Semantic Kernel functions into MAF tools, with a migration guide on Microsoft Learn. Most of these sources are secondary blogs, so confirm on Microsoft's documentation.
Semantic Kernel is free; the cost is whatever models you call. It is best for teams maintaining existing Microsoft-stack apps. Compare AutoGen, Microsoft Copilot Studio and LangGraph. Browse the AI Agents & Automation tools directory for more.
What Can You Use Semantic Kernel For?
Existing Microsoft-stack apps
Maintain LLM integrations.
Migration planning
Move to Agent Framework.
Semantic Kernel Features
- Multi-language SDK — .NET, Python and Java.
- Maintenance mode — Critical fixes only.
- Compatibility layer — Convert functions to MAF tools.
Who Is Semantic Kernel For?
- .NET developers — Native Microsoft SDK.
- Existing SK users — Continued support.
Semantic Kernel Pros & Limitations
What We Like
- Free and MIT licensed
- Three language SDKs
- Clear migration path
Limitations
- Feature development largely stopped
- New projects should consider the successor
- No fixed end-of-support date
Semantic Kernel Pricing
| Plan | Price | Main Features |
|---|---|---|
| Open-source SDK | Free (MIT) | Model usage costs separate; maintenance mode |
| Microsoft Agent Framework | Free (MIT) | Successor, v1.0 from April 2026 |
Pricing was last verified October 2026. Check the official website for the latest pricing.
AI Listing Jungle Ranking
- Global Rank:
- #1089
- Overall Score:
- 30.2/100
- Monthly Users:
- –
- Rank Change:
- ▼ 286
This ranking reflects AI Listing Jungle's own independent scoring methodology and is not an endorsement by Semantic Kernel or its company. How Our Rankings Work
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Semantic Kernel still supported?
v1.x gets critical fixes for at least a year after MAF GA.
What replaced it?
Microsoft Agent Framework 1.0.
Which languages?
.NET, Python and Java.
Is it free?
Yes, MIT-licensed.
Our Take
Semantic Kernel is reliable but past its growth phase.
New builds should start on Agent Framework.
Semantic Kernel Alternatives
Semantic Kernel Comparisons
Ready to try Semantic Kernel?
Visit the official website to get started.
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