FTC stepping up scrutiny of Microsoft’s cloud and AI practices

Investing.com -- The US Federal Trade Commission is stepping up its investigation into Microsoft Corp. over potential monopolistic practices in enterprise computing, cloud software, and AI offerings including Copilot, Bloomberg reported Friday.

In recent weeks, the FTC is said to have issued civil investigative demands - essentially civil subpoenas - to at least six companies that compete with Microsoft in business software and cloud computing. These requests contain numerous questions about Microsoft's licensing and other business practices.

The agency is looking for evidence that Microsoft makes it difficult for customers to use Windows, Office and other products on competing cloud services. Additionally, the FTC is seeking information about Microsoft's bundling of artificial intelligence, security, and identity software with other products like Windows and Office.

The investigation was initiated by former FTC chief Lina Khan during the final period of the Biden Administration. Under Donald Trump's second term, the probe continues with FTC Chairman Andrew Ferguson now overseeing the investigation. The agency has been meeting with companies and other groups to gather information.

The investigation remains ongoing, and no final decisions have been made. FTC investigations do not always lead to enforcement actions.

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