The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) has announced a new investigation into Microsoft, focusing on its position within the cloud computing sector. The regulator will assess whether the company should be granted strategic market status, a designation that would allow for closer oversight and potential intervention. The inquiry is expected to begin in May.
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The CMA has indicated concerns regarding Microsoft’s influence across a range of services, including productivity software, communication platforms and operating systems. These products are seen as potentially limiting competition within the cloud market, particularly when integrated across the company’s broader ecosystem.
The investigation follows an earlier review involving both Microsoft and Amazon, which examined competition in the UK cloud services market. As part of that process, both companies agreed to measures aimed at improving interoperability and reducing costs for customers using multiple cloud providers. The regulator stated that these changes should make it easier for businesses to switch or combine services.
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Microsoft has previously been subject to regulatory scrutiny in the UK, including inquiries into its partnerships and hiring practices within the artificial intelligence sector. The latest investigation reflects ongoing efforts by the CMA to ensure fair competition in rapidly evolving digital markets.