Story perspectives

CMA Launches Probe into Microsoft's Licensing Practices

3/31/2026

Summary

Story summary

In May, Britain's Competition and Markets Authority will launch a formal investigation into Microsoft Corporation, the U.S.-based software company, and its ecosystem.
The probe will assess licensing for Windows, Word, and Excel.
The probe could confer strategic market status on Microsoft.
The CMA notes Microsoft and Amazon have cut cloud fees and improved interoperability amid EU and US scrutiny.

History

Historical Context

In 1998, the U.S. Department of Justice filed an antitrust lawsuit against Microsoft, accusing it of monopolistic practices with its Windows operating system, which held over 90% market share. The case revealed Microsoft's exclusionary tactics, leading to a settlement in 2001 that mandated changes in its business practices. The current investigation by Britain's Competition and Markets Authority reflects ongoing scrutiny of Microsoft's competitive behavior in the tech industry.

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Story summary

In May, Britain's Competition and Markets Authority will launch a formal investigation into Microsoft Corporation, the U.S.-based software company, and its ecosystem.
The probe will assess licensing for Windows, Word, and Excel.
The probe could confer strategic market status on Microsoft.
The CMA notes Microsoft and Amazon have cut cloud fees and improved interoperability amid EU and US scrutiny.

1 / 2