EU Regulators Challenge Microsoft’s Competitive Edge with Teams Integration

European Union regulators accuse Microsoft of 'possibly abusive' practices by tying its Teams app to its business software, potentially violating antitrust rules. The investigation initiated after a complaint from Slack Technologies highlights concerns over restricted competition. Microsoft has made some changes but is urged to do more.

European Union regulators have leveled serious accusations against Microsoft, alleging 'possibly abusive' practices by linking its Teams messaging and videoconferencing app with its widely used business software. This move reportedly breaches the bloc's stringent antitrust regulations.

The European Commission, acting as the chief antitrust authority for the 27-nation bloc, raised alarms that Microsoft could be limiting market competition. By integrating Teams with essential office productivity suites like Office 365 and Microsoft 365, Microsoft may have unfairly advantaged its own product.

The probe was launched in July 2023 following a complaint from Slack Technologies, a competitor in the workplace messaging space. Even though Microsoft has begun offering some software bundles without Teams, the EU commission insists these steps fall short of 'restoring competition.' Microsoft's President Brad Smith responded positively, expressing willingness to address the commission's lingering concerns.

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