Microsoft has launched a preview version of the Windows Package Manager (WinGet), specifically version 1.12.210, which introduces several enhancements and experimental features. This release is aimed at users who wish to explore and test new functionalities, although it may still contain bugs or usability issues. Microsoft encourages feedback from users to help identify and resolve any problems encountered during testing.
Key updates in this version include the introduction of the MCP server, which aids users in configuring their clients using the "winget mcp" command. The App Installer has also been upgraded to utilize WinUI 3, moving away from its previous reliance on WinUI 2 and Windows App Runtime 1.7. Additionally, the manifest schema has been updated to version 1.12, now incorporating "Font" as both an InstallerType and a NestedInstallerType, enhancing the package manager's capabilities.
Bug fixes in this release address issues with manifest validation, particularly regarding UTF-8 BOM encoding. Noteworthy experimental features include font support, which can be activated through the winget configuration file. Users can then access two new commands: "winget font list" for viewing installed font families and their respective number of faces.
The development team has also made performance improvements, optimizing the COM static store, allowing downloads of Microsoft Store packages for specific operating systems, addressing compatibility with older OS versions, and enhancing search speed for installed items. The default log filename for the installer has been shortened to minimize clutter and improve the overall user experience.
Overall, the Windows Package Manager 1.12.210-preview marks a significant step towards creating a more robust and efficient package management solution for Windows users. Microsoft continues to innovate and improve WinGet, making it a vital tool for developers and users alike.
As the Windows ecosystem evolves, WinGet's enhancements are vital in maintaining its relevance and usability. Future updates may include further integration with the Microsoft Store and improved support for third-party applications, reinforcing WinGet's position as a central element in Windows package management. The continued feedback loop with users will be crucial in refining the tool and ensuring it meets the diverse needs of the community
Key updates in this version include the introduction of the MCP server, which aids users in configuring their clients using the "winget mcp" command. The App Installer has also been upgraded to utilize WinUI 3, moving away from its previous reliance on WinUI 2 and Windows App Runtime 1.7. Additionally, the manifest schema has been updated to version 1.12, now incorporating "Font" as both an InstallerType and a NestedInstallerType, enhancing the package manager's capabilities.
Bug fixes in this release address issues with manifest validation, particularly regarding UTF-8 BOM encoding. Noteworthy experimental features include font support, which can be activated through the winget configuration file. Users can then access two new commands: "winget font list" for viewing installed font families and their respective number of faces.
The development team has also made performance improvements, optimizing the COM static store, allowing downloads of Microsoft Store packages for specific operating systems, addressing compatibility with older OS versions, and enhancing search speed for installed items. The default log filename for the installer has been shortened to minimize clutter and improve the overall user experience.
Overall, the Windows Package Manager 1.12.210-preview marks a significant step towards creating a more robust and efficient package management solution for Windows users. Microsoft continues to innovate and improve WinGet, making it a vital tool for developers and users alike.
As the Windows ecosystem evolves, WinGet's enhancements are vital in maintaining its relevance and usability. Future updates may include further integration with the Microsoft Store and improved support for third-party applications, reinforcing WinGet's position as a central element in Windows package management. The continued feedback loop with users will be crucial in refining the tool and ensuring it meets the diverse needs of the community
Windows Package Manager 1.12.210 Preview released
Microsoft has released a preview version of the Windows Package Manager (WinGet) with several updates and improvements. The new version includes experimental support for fonts, an updated manifest schema to v1.12, and bug fixes such as resolving issues with UTF-8 BOM encoding.
Windows Package Manager 1.12.210 Preview released @ NT Compatible
