Google Files Antitrust Complaint Against Microsoft with EU Over Azure Cloud Practices

Sep 25, 2024, 12:50 PM

Alphabet unit Google has filed a formal antitrust complaint with the European Commission against Microsoft, alleging that the company engages in anti-competitive practices in the cloud computing market. Google claims that Microsoft's licensing practices for its Azure cloud platform lock customers into using Microsoft's services, thereby stifling competition. The complaint, submitted on Wednesday, accuses Microsoft of exploiting its market power in enterprise software to push businesses towards Azure. Google asserts that these practices harm the EU economy, costing billions, limit innovation, and negatively impact cybersecurity. Google believes regulatory action is the only way to resolve the situation. The complaint marks a significant escalation in the ongoing rivalry between the two tech giants over the lucrative cloud market.