07:05 AM EDT, 05/14/2026 (MT Newswires) -- The UK Competition and Markets Authority launched its probe into Microsoft's (MSF.F) business software ecosystem to evaluate if the technology giant should be designated with Strategic Market Status.

The British regulator will investigate whether Microsoft's product bundling, interoperability limits, or default settings prevent clients from switching to other providers and weaken market competition, according to a Thursday release.

A Strategic Market Status designation would also allow CMA to consider intervention related to the company's software licensing practices.

As part of the inquiry, the regulator is inviting local and international organizations, including technology companies, business software customers, and competitors, to submit feedback on the proposed areas of investigation until June 4.