bot-framework-emulator
« Back to VersTracker
Description:
Test and debug chat bots built with the Bot Framework SDK
Type: Cask  |  Latest Version: 4.14.1@0  |  Tracked Since: Dec 17, 2025
Links: Homepage  |  @MicrosoftDevs  |  formulae.brew.sh
Category: Developer tools
Tags: bot-framework chatbot debugging microsoft development
Install: brew install --cask bot-framework-emulator
About:
Bot Framework Emulator is a desktop application that allows developers to test and debug chat bots built with the Bot Framework SDK locally. It connects to local bot servers to inspect incoming and outgoing messages, modify state, and debug conversations in real-time. This tool is essential for iterating on bot logic without deploying to a cloud environment.
Key Features:
  • Real-time conversation inspection and state modification
  • Support for multiple bot runtimes and SDK versions
  • Integrated testing for Direct Line and other channels
  • Advanced debugging and breakpoint capabilities
Use Cases:
  • Debugging conversation flow and logic errors in local bot development
  • Testing bot responses and API integrations before deployment
  • Simulating different channel behaviors and user inputs
Alternatives:
  • Azure Bot Service – Cloud-hosted solution for deploying and managing bots, whereas Emulator is strictly for local testing.
  • Postman – General-purpose API client that can interact with bot endpoints but lacks bot-specific debugging features.
Version History
Detected Version Rev Change Commit
Aug 5, 2025 2:16pm 4.14.1 0 VERSION_BUMP 279508ca
Jul 9, 2024 3:41pm 4.14.1 0 VERSION_BUMP 8ed05a38