Windows Package Manager 1.28.90 Pre-release released
Microsoft just dropped a new preview version of the Windows Package Manager, version v1.28.90, for those keeping track of beta cycles. This isn't really for everyday users needing a stable package; it's targeted at folks who like digging into prerelease stuff, testing out fresh features, and finding bugs before they hit the main rollout.
There are some solid improvements here worth mentioning. The big one is that WinGet itself has been updated to v1.28. This brings the command-line powerhouse in line with the newer package versioning, smoothing things out for those who work with packages a lot.
Additionally, there are adjustments that modify how everything functions on your system. You now have options built-in for managing log file sizes, which basically gives you more tools to keep things running smoothly without logs blowing up space unexpectedly. Speaking of maintaining system stability, the PowerShell SDK has been upgraded to the latest version. This update likely helps under the hood with compatibility and speed down the line.
The Repair-WGPM command, crucial for fixing issues when WinGet encounters problems, has also received a proper upgrade. It's now much more dependable and quicker to run its checks. Other reliability tweaks include ignoring unnecessary ReleaseStatic outputs during installs and cleanups, and adding that signal handler bit probably makes the app tougher against unexpected system events.
On the feature front, there's something intriguing for managing complex installs. Now you can tie package actions into folders inside their usual location, making it easier to handle packages nested deep within other structures, like juggling multiple versions of a tool living side-by-side without cluttering your primary install path. And that sandbox environment update sends host details along with logs, which might help pinpoint issues faster if they arise from specific system contexts.
Undoubtedly, the previous preview build was not flawless. Microsoft fixed several problems reported by users, particularly around compatibility with Visual Studio 2026. Plus, they are tightening log controls further and adding even more logging limits, keeping things detailed when you need them but also tamed otherwise.
Finally, the move to hybrid CRT linkage instead of full static builds might shave off some milliseconds here or there. Hopefully it won't break anything, but potentially faster for certain tasks involving dynamic linking.
Release Windows Package Manager 1.28.90-preview
This is a preview build of WinGet for those interested in trying out upcoming features and fixes. While it has had some use and should be free of major issues, it may have bugs or usability problem...
Release Windows Package Manager 1.28.90-preview ยท microsoft/winget-cli
