The UK’s competition watchdog has approved Microsoft’s acquisition of artificial intelligence startup Anthropic, which is developing a rival to OpenAI’s ChatGPT. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) also cleared Microsoft’s purchase of Nuance Communications, a cloud and AI software company. The CMA found that the deals would not harm competition in the UK market for AI products and services. Microsoft has been expanding its AI capabilities through acquisitions and partnerships, including a multi-billion dollar investment in OpenAI. The approval allows Microsoft to continue bolstering its AI offerings and compete with other tech giants in the rapidly evolving AI landscape.