Under the agreement, software makers have been granted access to Microsoft’s PC productivity applications, SharePoint, Outlook, Exchange, and the .NET framework, in addition to Windows Client and Server operating systems.
Interestingly, the EU has not been able to secure similar terms with Apple or Google, leaving macOS and ChromeOS free from any inclusivity obligations. This could be attributed to the differences in business models, with Apple maintaining closed integration of its software and Google’s open-source Android platform offering greater transparency.
CrowdStrike-led outage was avoidable
While the agreement aims to promote a fair competitive environment by facilitating integration of third-party software vendors with Microsoft’s products, it raises security concerns. Granting third-party access to critical Microsoft systems may expose them to vulnerabilities, as evidenced by the recent CrowdStrike patch fiasco that resulted in a mass disruption.
