Microchip Technology Inc. Enhances Developer Access with Free Tools

In a significant move aimed at empowering developers, Microchip Technology Inc. (Nasdaq: MCHP) announced on July 8, 2026, that it is making its MPLAB® XC Pro Compilers and MPLAB Machine Learning (ML) Development Suite available for free. This strategic decision allows unlimited installations across individual and team environments, providing developers with advanced optimization capabilities and integrated workflows for embedded machine learning—completely free of charge.

Greg Robinson, Microchip's corporate vice president of development tools, MCU, and wireless business units, emphasized the company's commitment to optimizing the development experience for engineers using Microchip devices. "By eliminating license fees and providing high-performance tools at no cost, we’re removing barriers to innovation. Customers can now take advantage of our optimized compilers and integrated machine learning capabilities to move efficiently from design through deployment," he stated.

Historically available through paid license tiers, the MPLAB XC Pro Compilers employ high-level techniques designed to reduce code size, lower memory footprints, and improve execution speeds. These compilers generate highly efficient and architecture-optimized code for embedded applications, enabling developers to streamline their embedded design processes across Microchip’s extensive portfolio of 8-, 16-, and 32-bit microcontrollers (MCUs) and microprocessors (MPUs).

The MPLAB Machine Learning Development Suite Model Builder, which is a plug-in for MPLAB or Microsoft® Visual Studio® Code (VS Code®), is now also available at no cost. This tool enables developers to generate optimized AI and IoT sensor recognition code, facilitating the creation and deployment of end-to-end embedded machine learning solutions. By offering MPLAB ML in VS Code, Microchip is committed to meeting developers in their preferred environments, enhancing the flexibility and usability of their development experience.

Microchip has also extended this shift to its MPLAB XC Functional Safety Compilers, which are TÜV SÜD-certified and support safety-critical applications. This allows developers to initiate safety-oriented designs without incurring upfront license costs, with fees applied only when certification is required. Certification documentation and support will still be available for purchase when necessary.

In addition to providing free access to these tools, Microchip is offering updates and priority technical support for any compiler-related queries, further enhancing the value proposition for developers. Interested parties can find more information about Microchip’s full suite of VS Code extensions on their website.

The MPLAB XC Compilers and the MPLAB Machine Learning Development Suite are now available at no cost. Developers interested in these tools are encouraged to contact a Microchip sales representative or an authorized worldwide distributor for more information.

Microchip Technology Inc. is a leading supplier of semiconductors dedicated to simplifying innovative design through comprehensive system solutions. With a strong emphasis on addressing critical challenges across emerging technologies and durable markets, Microchip supports customers from concept to completion. Headquartered in Chandler, Arizona, the company provides exceptional technical support and delivers solutions across multiple sectors, including industrial, automotive, consumer, aerospace and defense, communications, and computing.

For further details, developers and interested parties can visit the Microchip website.