Microsoft Agent Framework RC: AutoGen + Semantic Kernel Unified with Graph-Based Workflows and A2A/MCP Support

Microsoft Azure Blog·high signal

Microsoft merged AutoGen and Semantic Kernel into a single open-source Microsoft Agent Framework, reaching Release Candidate 1.0 on February 19, 2026 with GA targeted for end of Q1. Both predecessors enter maintenance-only mode. The unified framework adds graph-based multi-agent orchestration, session-based state management, type-safe middleware, built-in telemetry, and interoperability with A2A, AG-UI, and MCP protocols — available in both .NET and Python.