Microsoft and Cloud Software Group partner to develop new cloud and AI solutions

Microsoft has entered into an eight-year strategic partnership agreement with Cloud Software Group Inc. to jointly develop new cloud and AI solutions. In addition, Cloud Software Group will invest $1.65 billion in the Microsoft cloud and its generative AI capabilities.

The collaboration between Citrix, a business unit of Cloud Software Group, and Microsoft, will see the two companies jointly supporting customer success and offering tailored solutions, expert guidance, and support to accelerate customers’ cloud journeys.

Additionally, Citrix will adopt Microsoft Azure as its preferred cloud platform, providing its customers with the comprehensive capabilities of the Citrix platform, Azure Virtual Desktop and Windows 365.

Further, the collaboration will streamline the procurement process via the Azure Marketplace, offering customers an easier way to assess, expand, or renew Citrix solutions.

"As organizations embrace flexible work models, the need to empower employees with secure, innovative solutions for enhanced productivity becomes imperative. The partnership between Citrix and Microsoft epitomizes the ‘Better Together’ relationship, combining both companies’ strengths to deliver unmatched value and innovation to our customers," said Sridhar Mullapudi, General Manager at Citrix.

The agreement will also accelerate productivity and new innovations in AI. To increase collaboration and productivity, Cloud Software Group will transition all its employees to Microsoft 365. This will empower field teams with best-in-class productivity and AI tools to enable a new wave of joint go-to-market activities.

"Our strategic partnership with Cloud Software Group is built on a shared vision for customer success through cloud and AI technology adoption. Together, we will enhance the customer experience with integrated solutions and go-to-market support for its Citrix business unit. With Microsoft 365 as its collaboration platform and Microsoft Azure as its preferred cloud solution, Citrix is well positioned to deliver transformative solutions for our mutual customers at scale," said Judson Althoff, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer at Microsoft.