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Italy opens EU-backed probe into Microsoft gaming units

2026-10-08 · 1 source · Economic Times ETtech

In short

Italy has opened an EU-backed antitrust probe into gaming companies owned by Microsoft. The authority named Activision Blizzard and said other Microsoft group firms are also included.

This could bring regulatory pressure for Microsoft’s gaming business. The reporting does not say what rules may have been broken or which other companies are involved.

What the reporting says

Italy launched an EU-backed probe into Microsoft-owned gaming companies, and the antitrust authority said the investigation is aimed at Activision Blizzard among other Microsoft group firms. The summary did not name the other companies or explain the suspected conduct. The immediate consequence is regulatory scrutiny, while the scope and possible remedies remain unknown.

Why it matters

Italy’s antitrust authority said it is investigating Activision Blizzard and other Microsoft group gaming companies in an EU-backed probe. The reporting does not name the other firms or give the alleged violation. The case creates regulatory risk for Microsoft’s gaming operations, but the scope, timeline and any possible penalties are not stated.

Touches: Microsoft, Activision Blizzard, Companies, Global, Markets

Sources