FTC Launches Antitrust Investigation into Microsoft's Cloud and AI Practices

The probe examines allegations of anti-competitive behavior, software bundling, and security concerns in Microsoft's business operations.

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission has initiated a broad investigation into Microsoft's cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity practices.
Key concerns include Microsoft's bundling of software products like Office and Teams with its Azure cloud services, which competitors claim stifles competition.
The FTC is also scrutinizing Microsoft's partnership with OpenAI, questioning whether it circumvents regulatory oversight while maintaining market dominance.
Microsoft's cybersecurity practices, including vulnerabilities exploited in recent government email breaches, are under review for their impact on national security and market power.
The investigation, approved by outgoing FTC Chair Lina Khan, comes as a potential shift in regulatory priorities looms with President-elect Donald Trump's administration.