FTC sends demands to Microsoft rivals in cloud and AI antitrust probe

Bloomberg reported that the Federal Trade Commission has issued civil investigative demands to at least six companies that compete with Microsoft in business software and cloud computing, as part of an ongoing monopolization probe. The questions cover whether Microsoft makes Windows and Office harder to use on rival clouds, and how it bundles AI, security and identity software. Bloomberg reported no final decisions, and Microsoft declined to comment. The probe is a medium-term overhang on licensing and Copilot bundling.

• At least six rivals received civil investigative demands in recent weeks
• Focus on licensing terms for Windows and Office on rival clouds
• Also covers bundling of AI, security and identity software
• No final decision; Microsoft declined to comment