The European Commission has launched a public consultation to solicit market feedback on commitments proposed by Microsoft to resolve its investigation into the inclusion of Teams in Microsoft's commercial productivity suites. These proposed commitments represent a constructive resolution to competition concerns while providing European customers with greater choice and flexibility.

Constructive Engagement with the Commission

The proposed commitments are the result of constructive, good-faith discussions with the European Commission over several months. Microsoft believes these commitments represent a clear and complete resolution to concerns raised by competitors and will provide European customers with more choices in how they purchase productivity tools.

"We value the opportunity to engage constructively with the European Commission and take seriously any concerns they raise regarding our business practices," Microsoft stated. "Throughout our 50-year history, we have learned the importance of listening, engaging, and responding to such concerns."

Evolution of Communication and Collaboration Tools

Microsoft has been developing communication and collaboration capabilities in its productivity suites for more than a decade, starting with Office Communicator in 2007 and evolving through Lync, Skype for Business Online, and most recently Microsoft Teams. During the global pandemic that began in 2020, these tools became essential for business continuity and remain vital for workplace innovation and communication.

Business customers expect modern work solutions with advanced communication and collaboration features. Microsoft's ongoing development reflects this market demand and the company's commitment to meeting customer expectations.

Key Commitments

The proposed commitments build on new options first introduced in 2023, which enabled customers to purchase versions of Microsoft's business and enterprise productivity suites without Teams. The new commitments require Microsoft to:

- Maintain availability of suites without Teams in the European Economic Area (EEA) for the next seven years
- Set minimum price deltas between versions with and without Teams
- Advance interoperability and openness of the platform

While the commitments are focused on EEA customers, Microsoft has decided to align options and pricing for its suites and Teams service globally if the commitments are accepted. This global consistency helps ensure clarity for customers and streamlines decision-making and negotiations.

Commitment to Interoperability

The proposed commitments formalize Microsoft's dedication to interoperability, which has long been core to the company's approach and the suite's value proposition. Microsoft 365 is more than a suite of applications—it is an adaptable, open development platform for custom productivity solutions.

Today, over 7,000 apps are available from independent developers in Microsoft AppSource, covering categories like productivity, project management, communication, HR, and IT. These apps enhance productivity and streamline workflows for businesses of all sizes.

Next Steps

Microsoft is hopeful that following the market test, the European Commission will conclude that the proposed commitments resolve its concerns and adopt a final decision closing the investigation. If approved, Microsoft will implement the commitments on the required timeline.

Until then, Microsoft will continue to support customers in the EEA and around the world with existing suite options, and customers may continue to renew and adjust existing subscriptions.

Respecting European Regulation

Microsoft recognizes its responsibility as a global technology provider to follow and adapt to laws and regulations in the countries where it does business. This includes competition law, the Digital Markets Act, and other EU rules and regulations.

"We respect the role that European laws play in regulating our products and services," Microsoft emphasized, reaffirming its commitment to working constructively within Europe's regulatory framework.

Source: Microsoft EU Policy Blog