Amazon also slams Microsoft UK cloud practice following Google complaint
UK CMA collects statements for its cloud investigation
When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.Here’s how it works.
Amazonhas become the latest in a growing number of companies and bodies criticizingMicrosoft’s anticompetitive business practices in the UK.
Googlehas already spoken out unfavorably about Microsoft following the company’s referral to the UK Competition and Markets Authority by Britain’s media regulator, Ofcom.
An investigation is already underway into the country’s cloud computing industry after the CMA got involved in October.
Microsoft criticized for cloud dominance, again
Amazon’s comment comes as something of a surprise, given that Ofcom highlighted both Microsoft and Amazon’s dominance in the sector.
In astatementto the CMA, Amazon commented: “To use many of Microsoft’s software products with these other cloud services providers, a customer must purchase a separate license even if they already own the software.”
Microsoftannouncedchanges to some of its terms earlier this year, which it said was to “help these partners to be more competitive and grow their businesses.” They came into effect on October 1, days before the CMA confirmed its investigation.
Amazon’s statement also tackles that the company has been criticized for unfair business practices: “The cloud, and AWS in particular, has made switching between IT providers easier than ever before, which encourages vigorous competition to provide high-quality, innovative IT services at low cost.”
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
The company said: “AWS looks forward to engaging cooperatively with the CMA during its investigation.”
Conversely, Redmond’s statement was less optimistic, though the company did agree to engage with the CMA: “Microsoft considers there to be significant complexity involved in designing, monitoring and enforcing remedies which are effective, proportionate, and do not place an undue burden on cloud providers and, more importantly, their UK customers.”
More broadly,Oraclealso commented on the investigation, as well as cloud customers likeVodafoneand trade associations likeCISPE.
TechRadar Pro has offered Microsoft and Amazon the opportunity to share their comments with us on the matter.
An Amazon spokesperson directed us to the company’s statement to the CMA. Microsoft did not respond to our email.
More from TechRadar Pro
With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!
Best lightweight Linux distro of 2024
Researchers who uncover security flaws set to get extra protection in Germany with new law
I’m canceling Prime Video for Apple TV Plus this month – here are 5 reasons why
