UK Antitrust Regulator Is Officially Investigating Microsoft Office

The UK CMA has opened a formal probe into Microsoft’s business software ecosystem, focusing on Windows, Office bundling and cloud licensing practices.

Regulators will examine whether Microsoft’s packaging and pricing of software harms competition in the UK market.

The investigation is expected to run until February and could lead to a strategic market designation for Microsoft.

If imposed, that status could give the CMA stronger powers over how Microsoft sells and licenses products to businesses and public institutions.