Microsoft settles with European cloud trade body over antitrust complaints

Core Viewpoint - Microsoft has reached a settlement with the Cloud Infrastructure Services Providers in Europe (CISPE) to address antitrust complaints regarding its market practices in the cloud services sector [1][3]. Group 1: Settlement Details - The agreement includes a memorandum of understanding where Microsoft commits to changes that address CISPE's complaints, including the release of an enhanced version of Azure Stack HCI for European cloud providers [2]. - Features of the enhanced Azure Stack HCI will include multi-session virtual desktop infrastructure based on Windows 11, free Extended Security Updates (ESU), and pay-as-you-go licensing for SQL Server [2]. - Microsoft will also pay an undisclosed lump-sum to CISPE to cover litigation and campaigning costs, and in return, CISPE will withdraw its antitrust complaint with the European Commission [3]. Group 2: Implications and Reactions - CISPE views the settlement as a significant victory for European cloud providers, believing it will create a level playing field for them and their customers [3]. - However, critics argue that the agreement primarily benefits a small number of providers in Europe and does not address the broader global anticompetitive practices of Microsoft [4]. - The Coalition for Fair Software (CFSL) emphasizes that the settlement does not resolve the underlying issues affecting millions of cloud customers worldwide [4].