European Union antitrust regulators are set to delve into the potential implications of Microsoft’s plan to sell its non-EU cloud streaming rights to Ubisoft Entertainment. This maneuver is aimed at gaining approval for its Activision Blizzard bid within the UK. Regulators will examine whether this transaction impacts the concessions Microsoft has made to the European Commission.
A spokesperson from the European Union executive emphasized their vigilance regarding the developments in the UK and how these might influence the commitments previously accepted by the Commission. The examination is rooted in the EU’s commitment to ensure fair competition and compliance with antitrust regulations.
The European Union competition enforcer initially granted approval for the deal in May. This decision came subsequent to Microsoft’s agreement to license sought-after Activision games, including the well-known “Call of Duty,” to competing game streaming platforms for a duration of 10 years. The intention behind these commitments was to allay concerns related to potential monopolistic practices and to foster a competitive gaming landscape.
As Microsoft’s cloud streaming rights sale to Ubisoft Entertainment unfolds, the European Union’s scrutiny highlights the interconnectedness of global technology and entertainment conglomerates and the measures taken to safeguard healthy competition in the industry.