An undisclosed Microsoft presentation is now central to a multi-million dollar antitrust fight

A UK antitrust case is intensifying around Microsoft’s software licensing practices, with a previously undisclosed internal presentation now central to allegations that the company steered customers from perpetual licenses toward higher-cost subscriptions and limited resale of pre-owned software. If the claims gain traction, the case could affect Microsoft’s licensing strategy and pricing power across Europe, while signaling greater scrutiny of software vendors’ contract terms and “lock-in” tactics. For CIOs and IT leaders, the key implication is stronger pressure to reassess licensing models, renewal strategies, and vendor risk management to protect cost flexibility and compliance.