FTC examines Microsoft’s licensing and AI business strategies
The FTC is gathering data on Microsoft’s cloud strategy, cybersecurity practices, and future licensing rule changes.
The US Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is pressing forward with an antitrust investigation into Microsoft, focusing on its cloud computing, software licensing, and AI practices.
The probe, initially launched in the final days of the Biden administration, has gained momentum in recent weeks as FTC officials gather information from industry players and other stakeholders.
Regulators are scrutinising whether Microsoft has used restrictive licensing terms to discourage customers from shifting away from its Azure cloud service to competing platforms.
The agency is also examining the company’s decision to scale back its own AI projects after partnering with OpenAI, along with its cybersecurity policies and planned changes to licensing rules.
The probe was authorised by former FTC chair Lina Khan before her departure, with new chair Andrew Ferguson overseeing the ongoing investigation. Microsoft has yet to comment on the matter, while the FTC continues to evaluate concerns about the company’s influence in key technology sectors.
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