Technology UK tribunal sends £2B claim accusing Microsoft of overcharging for licensing to trial

[Miravi]

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https://www.theregister.com/2026/04/22/microsoft_licensing_claim_cat/

A UK Competition Appeals Tribunal (CAT) has dismissed Microsoft's objections to a collective action lawsuit brought by UK-based cloud licensees, clearing the way for trial.

The case seeks compensation for approximately 59,000 businesses and organizations over Microsoft's pricing of Windows Server on Azure versus competing cloud platforms including AWS and Google Cloud - allegations that Microsoft charged less for the software on its own platform than on rivals'. If Microsoft loses, it could face liability of up to £2 billion (c $2.7 billion).

The CAT granted a Collective Proceedings Order (CPO) on an opt-out basis, and said in its judgment that the claim "comfortably passes" the reasonable prospect of success threshold. The CPO - expected to be published within weeks - will set a deadline for businesses to opt out, and may include directions for when hearings begin.

£2B Microsoft licensing claim gets go-ahead from UK tribunal

: Legal action claims tech giant charges more for Windows Server when it's not on Azure

www.theregister.com