The EU is investigating Microsoft, Google and Samsung’s artificial intelligence deals

European Union antitrust regulators are set to examine exclusivity clauses in Microsoft’s partnership with OpenAI, which could trigger a formal investigation. At the same time, Google’s AI deal with Samsung has also come under regulatory scrutiny.

EU competition chief Margrethe Vestager announced Friday that the investigation would examine additional third-party perspectives. “We have reviewed the responses and are currently sending a further request for information on the agreement between Microsoft and OpenAI. To understand whether certain exclusivity clauses could have a negative impact on competition,” Vestager told a conference.

The increased regulatory attention highlights global concerns about large technology companies exploiting their dominant market positions in emerging technologies, echoing their impact on other sectors.

In early March, Vestager sent questionnaires to several major tech companies, including Microsoft, Google, Facebook Meta (META.O) and ByteDance’s TikTok, to gather information about their artificial intelligence partnerships.

According to Reuters In the report, the European Commission’s preliminary findings could pave the way for an investigation into Microsoft’s collaboration with OpenAI. A Microsoft spokesperson responded: “We stand ready to answer any additional questions the European Commission may have.”

While Vestager clarified that Microsoft’s partnership with OpenAI would not be subject to EU merger rules due to a lack of control, she emphasized the significant investment Microsoft has made. The tech giant pumped $13 billion into for-profit subsidiary OpenAI, securing a 49% stake.

The event marks a key moment for antitrust enforcement in the technology sector, as regulators seek to prevent incumbent companies from stifling competition in the rapidly evolving field of artificial intelligence.

Source: Reuters