Microsoft’s Semantic Kernel Unleashes the Power of AI
A seamless integration of AI and UI capabilities that revolutionizes app development
Date: March-17, 2023
Semantic Kernel (SK) is Microsoft’s new SDK for integrating Large Language Models (LLMs) and artificial intelligence (AI) into applications. AI-driven advances in natural language processing are changing the way we interact with software, from intelligent chatbots to code generators. It is becoming more important for developers to incorporate AI models without requiring extensive training or fine-tuning as AI models become more accessible.
Embracing the AI-First Approach
Developers can mix conventional programming languages, such as C# and Python, with the latest LLM AI prompts using Semantic Kernel. Developers can create new, user-centric experiences with prompt templating, chaining, and planning in SK. As an example, SK can be used to summarize long chat conversations, flag important next steps to add to a to-do list, or even plan a full vacation instead of just booking a flight.
Open-Source and Developer-Friendly
This open-source framework comes with example apps and notebooks that show how to get started with LLM AI quickly. Developers can build “Skills” using either semantic or native code as part of Semantic Kernel’s design. Flexibility is at the core of these Skills, which enable developers to build lightweight, extensible solutions that integrate seamlessly with SK’s Memories (for context) and Connectors (for live data and actions). By translating a user’s request into Skills, Memories, and Connectors, SK’s Planner simplifies complex tasks.
Supporting Next-Generation Models
With plans to add more model support in the future, Semantic Kernel supports models from OpenAI, including the newly released GPT-4, and Azure OpenAI Service. The design of SK takes advantage of the emerging capabilities of next-generation models such as GPT-4. Programming with Planner and Skills focuses on achieving outcomes instead of mere outputs, promoting a more goal-oriented approach.
Key Benefits of a Semantic Kernel
- LLM AI is easy to implement and test using SK because it can be integrated into any application.
- Extensibility: With SK, developers can connect with external data sources and services, allowing apps to use natural language processing alongside live information.
- Better prompting: SK’s templated prompts enable developers to design semantic functions that unlock LLM AI’s full potential.
- Novel-But-Familiar: Native code remains available as a first-class partner for prompt engineering, providing the benefit of both worlds.
Learn Semantic Kernel
To help developers get started with Semantic Kernel, Microsoft has partnered with LinkedIn Learning to offer a free course. The framework is evolving in the open, and developers are encouraged to contribute feedback and input to the learning hub.
Microsoft’s Semantic Kernel will revolutionize how developers integrate AI and LLMs into their applications. An AI-first era in app development is set to begin with SK’s seamless and user-centric approach.
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