FTC Intensifies Probe into Microsoft's Enterprise Computing Monopoly

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is accelerating its investigation into Microsoft, focusing on whether the company is illegally monopolizing the enterprise computing market through its cloud software and AI products, including Copilot. The FTC has recently sent civil investigative demands to several of Microsoft's competitors in the business software and cloud computing markets, seeking information on Microsoft's licensing and business practices. At least six companies have received these demands, which are akin to civil subpoenas. The FTC is looking for evidence that Microsoft makes it difficult for customers to use Windows and Office on rival cloud services and is also requesting information on how Microsoft bundles AI, security, and identity software with its products.