EU Inquires About Applicability of Fresh Technology Regulations to Microsoft's Bing and Apple's iMessage.

EU antitrust regulators have initiated inquiries into whether Microsoft's Bing, Edge, and Microsoft Advertising, along with Apple's iMessage, should adhere to the new stringent technology regulations. This information comes from individuals familiar with the situation as of Monday.

The European Commission is investigating whether Microsoft's Bing, Edge, and Microsoft Advertising, as well as Apple's iMessage, should be covered by the Digital Markets Act (DMA). This development followed objections from the companies, which challenged the EU competition regulator's classification of these services as core platform services under the DMA.

The DMA mandates that Microsoft, Apple, Google (of Alphabet), Amazon, Meta Platforms, and ByteDance must permit third-party apps or app stores on their platforms, in addition to simplifying the process for users to switch from default apps to competing alternatives, among other responsibilities.

Earlier this month, the Commission distributed questionnaires to solicite input from rivals and users. They were asked to assess the significance of Microsoft's three services and Apple's iMessage in comparison to competing services. Those familiar with the matter stated that the EU regulatory body also inquired about any distinctive features of these services that business users rely on, as well as how they integrate into the companies' ecosystems. The questionnaires also sought data on the number of users utilizing these services.

Respondents were granted less than a week to provide their feedback, with the Commission aiming to conclude its investigation within five months.