software resale Archives

Winsage

September 12, 2025

Legal fight over Microsoft Office and Windows license resales could reshape Europe’s second hand software industry

Microsoft is engaged in a legal dispute with ValueLicensing, a UK reseller of pre-owned software licenses, which is being heard at the Competition Appeal Tribunal. Microsoft claims that the resale of these licenses is unlawful, arguing it holds copyright over not just the software code but also components like the graphical user interface. ValueLicensing alleges that Microsoft has restricted the resale market by incentivizing customers to switch to subscription services and including clauses in contracts that limit resale rights, resulting in an estimated £270 million in lost profits. The case could significantly impact the future of the second-hand software marketplace in Europe.

Winsage

September 10, 2025

If Microsoft wins this UK court case it might spell the end of second-hand Windows licenses

Microsoft and software reseller ValueLicensing are in a legal battle at the UK Competition Appeal Tribunal, which could significantly impact the second-hand software market in Europe. ValueLicensing is claiming £270 million from Microsoft, alleging anti-competitive practices that limit the availability of licenses for resale. The dispute centers on copyright laws, with Microsoft arguing that certain components of its operating system cannot be resold. The trial's outcome may set a precedent affecting the future of software resale and consumer access to affordable Microsoft products.

Winsage

September 9, 2025

Microsoft key resale fight heads to court in the UK — case potentially puts cheap Windows keys at risk

A UK-based reseller's case against Microsoft regarding the resale of second-hand Windows and Office licenses is being heard by the UK’s Competition Appeal Tribunal (CAT) over three days, concluding on September 11. The court will determine if certain components of Microsoft's software are exempt from the EU’s software resale regulations, which currently allow the resale of perpetual software licenses. Microsoft argues that the resale doctrine applies only to computer programs and not to components like the graphical user interface (GUI), which they claim remain under copyright protection after license transfer. A ruling in favor of Microsoft could end the resale of second-hand Windows licenses in the UK. This case is part of a larger legal battle initiated by ValueLicensing in 2021, which accuses Microsoft of harming the pre-owned software market. The comprehensive trial is expected in 2026, but current proceedings may influence the case's direction. Additionally, with Windows 10 support ending soon, any increase in licensing costs could negatively impact users needing to upgrade their systems.