Microsoft to likely receive EU antitrust warning over Activision Blizzard purchase
A list of concerns from the European Commission will soon hit Microsoft’s desk.
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What you need to know
The European Commission will likely issue a warning to Microsoft regarding the tech giant’s acquisition of Activision Blizzard, according toReuters. Microsoft’s$69 billion purchase of Activision Blizzardhas been under heavy scrutiny by several governing bodies, including theUnited States Federal Trade Commision (FTC), the UK Competition and Markets Authority (CMA), and the European Union’s European Commission. Now, it appears that Microsoft will receive a list of concerns about the deal.
The European Commission will share a statement of objections with Microsoft that outlines what the governing body believes are issues with the purchase. Reuters stated that the Commission is preparing the charge sheet now and is expected to send it to Microsoft in the coming weeks.
A deadline of April 11, 2023 has been set by the European Commission to reach a decision about Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard. It’s generally believed that the EU’s decision will affect how the FTC moves forward about the same deal.
“We’re continuing to work with the European Commission to address any marketplace concerns. Our goal is to bring more games to more people, and this deal will further that goal,” said Microsoft.
It’s expected that Microsoft will present several concessionary “remedies” to the EU and CMA. The company has also entered a ten-year commitment to bring Call of Duty to Nintendo Switch and Steam, which was likely made in an effort to sway regulators. Microsoft President Brad Smithoffered to make a similar deal with Sonyas well to have the popular gaming franchise remain available on PlayStation.
In November 2022, our Managing Editor Jez Corden argued that theEU’s position on the Microsoft Activision Blizzard deal is compromised. His piece focused largely on controversial statements made by Ricardo Cardoso, Deputy Head of Unit Interinstitutional & Outreach in the European Union. The article also serves as a reminder of how complicated deals of this magnitude can become.
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Sean Endicott is a tech journalist at Windows Central, specializing in Windows, Microsoft software, AI, and PCs. He’s covered major launches, from Windows 10 and 11 to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT. Sean’s journey began with the Lumia 740, leading to strong ties with app developers. Outside writing, he coaches American football, utilizing Microsoft services to manage his team. He studied broadcast journalism at Nottingham Trent University and is active on X @SeanEndicott_ and Threads @sean_endicott_.
