The Commission was concerned that Microsoft would use Windows strong position in the computer and software market to bolster LinkedIn's presence, for example by pre-installing it on PCs or integrating the social network with Office or Microsoft's CRM software. As a result it imposed conditions that Microsoft does not oblige PC manufacturers to install LinkedIn and users would be free to remove it if it was installed, and that the company ensures competing professional social networks can maintain current levels of interoperability with Office through the so-called Office add-in program and APIs.
In addition, competing social networks will also have access to Microsoft Graph, a gateway for software developers to build applications and services that can access data stored in the Microsoft cloud, such as contact information, calendar information, emails, etc. Software developers can potentially use this data to drive subscribers and usage to their professional social networks.
The EC concluded that Microsoft's share on the CRM market was not large enough, compared to rivals such as Salesforce and Oracle, to require concessions in this area. Salesforce, which had also pursued a takeover of LinkedIn, had early called on the EU to block the takeover, saying it was unfair competition for Microsoft to have access to the social network's user data.
The commitments will apply in the EEA region for five years and will be monitored by a trustee.
Microsoft said the USD 26 billion takeover is now expected to close in the coming days, after already receiving regulatory clearances in other major markets such as the US, Canada and Brazil. LinkedIn counts more than 467 million members in over 200 countries.
