Our readers predict Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard will go through; do you agree?
Our readers are optimistic about Microsoft’s chances of buying Activision Blizzard.
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What you need to know
Microsoft announced its plans to purchaseActivision Blizzardalmost 14 months ago. The acquisition still has several regulatory hurdles to get over before it goes through. Microsoft has spent over a year trying to convince regulators from the US, UK, and EU to approve the deal. It seems that the tech giant has made some headway, with reports indicating that theEuropean Union is leaning toward approving the purchase.
Even if the deal passes through EU regulators, it will still need to be approved by the UK’s CMA and the US' FTC. The likelihood of that is unclear, but we wanted to get a gauge regarding if our readers believe Microsoft will be allowed to purchase Activision Blizzard.
Throughout this week weran a pollasking if people predict the deal will go through. Over 81% of participants predicted that Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard will be approved.
Windows Central take
Just last month, Microsoft’s chances of buying Activision Blizzard seemed to be dwindling. Then, the company announced thatMicrosoft Activision titles will be on GeForce NOWand signed a binding agreement to haveXbox games on Nintendo hardware for 10 years. Those agreements seem to have swayed the EU, at least based on recent reports.
While the FTC feel the same way? It’s hard to say. The US regulatory may be looking for a way to set a new precedent when it comes to major tech deals. Microsoft’s purchase of Activision Blizzard would certainly set an example if the FTC wants to put its foot down and stop further deals of a similar size.
If the deal does not go through, Microsoft’s Phil Spenceremphasized that “Xbox will exist"going forward. Our Managing Editor Jez Corden alsodiscussed what would and could happenif the deal was not approved.
Do you agree with our readers?Reach out to me on Twitterto let me know.
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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_.
