The European Commission issued preliminary findings designating Microsoft Azure and Amazon Web Services (AWS) as gatekeepers under the Digital Markets Act (DMA). Regulators identified Azure and AWS as the largest and second-largest cloud computing services in the European Union.
The Commission classified the services as crucial gateways for business customers despite them not meeting standard quantitative thresholds. This designation subjects both companies to strict DMA obligations.
Finalized findings would require Microsoft and Amazon to promote interoperability and limit customer lock-in. The rules also prevent the providers from favoring their own services over competitors. Both companies may respond to the findings before the EU issues a final decision.