British regulator: New investigation likely to begin for Microsoft’s deal with Activision Blizzard

The UK’s Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) is cautious about the idea of ​​a quick resolution to its concerns over Activision Blizzard’s merger deal with Microsoft. The Redmond-based tech giant and British regulators quickly released statements after Microsoft won the legal battle with the FTC; But now the CMA has announced that Microsoft’s proposals could trigger a new investigation into Activision Blizzard’s merger with the company.

Billy ProudlockCMA media officer by issuing a statement to Verge He warned that the dialogue between this organization and Microsoft is in the early stages. Proudlock says:

The CMA first blocked the deal over concerns about cloud services raised earlier this year; But Microsoft and the British Competition and Markets Authority after the judge’s ruling Jacqueline Scott Corleydeclared their willingness to negotiate.

However, the CMA has made it clear that Microsoft cannot rely solely on incremental behavioral changes. Before blocking the transaction due to competition concerns in cloud games, this regulator had first used a structural solution to express its concerns in the game consoles sector.

CNBC It was also reported yesterday that Microsoft and CMA have reached an agreement to resolve concerns related to cloud games. This report does not provide any other explanation about the details of the said agreement; But its provisions are likely to be specific to the UK and may include Xbox Cloud Gaming services in the region.

EU lawmakers also had concerns about cloud gaming; But earlier this year, thanks to the 10-year licenses that Microsoft had offered to its competitors in the cloud gaming sector, they approved the said contract.

The European Union also secured an important solution that includes a free license for consumers living in EU countries, allowing them to access all current and future Activision Blizzard titles on licensed PCs and consoles through their preferred cloud game streaming service. to be

Additionally, cloud gaming service providers receive a free license to provide these games. Mlex also reported last month that Microsoft was exploring options to finalize its deal with Activision Blizzard despite the UK decision.