Google and Nvidia Voice Concerns to FTC Over Microsoft's Activision Blizzard Acquisition

Google and Nvidia have reportedly shared their concerns with the Federal Trade Commission regarding Microsoft's proposed acquisition of Activision Blizzard. The US regulator is preparing for an August 2nd hearing after filing a complaint against the merger last month. According to Bloomberg, both companies provided information to the FTC, expressing concerns that the acquisition could give Microsoft an unfair advantage in cloud gaming, subscription services, and mobile gaming. The FTC had previously identified this as a key area of concern. Nvidia emphasized the importance of equal and open access to games, although it did not directly oppose the acquisition. Microsoft has stated that it is addressing issues raised by regulators and competitors to ensure the deal closes with confidence, with a spokesperson saying the company wants to increase access to games, not reduce it. Sony has also publicly objected to the deal, citing concerns over the potential impact on console competition. The FTC is the biggest regulatory challenge the $68.7 billion deal currently faces, with the European Commission and UK's Competition and Markets Authority expected to reveal their decisions by April.