Developers, let’s talk MIDI 2.0 — the biggest update to the standard in nearly 40 years. If you build music software, hardware, or plugins, this changes everything. Here’s what you need to know 

MIDI 1.0 (1983) gave us note-on, note-off, velocity… the foundation of digital music. But it had limits:

• 7-bit data (0–127)

• No built-in profiles for instruments

• No auto-configuration

MIDI 2.0 solves these pain points.

Higher Resolution
MIDI 2.0 supports 32-bit data, which means super-precise control over pitch, velocity, and CCs. Think smoother modulation curves, expressive bends, and natural dynamics.

Bidirectional Communication
Instead of just sending data one way, MIDI 2.0 devices talk back. This allows auto-discovery of features — your DAW knows what your synth can do without endless manual mapping.

Profiles & Property Exchange
Developers can define “Profiles” (e.g., Drawbar Organ, Drum Kit, Piano). Devices that support the same profile can instantly align their parameters. Goodbye, tedious configuration.