Microsoft has announced that its EU cloud customers can now process and store all personal data within the region as part of a phased roll-out plan. Reuters reports that this decision aligns with the broader trend in the technology sector, where companies are bolstering their data storage and processing capabilities to comply with the EU privacy and security regulations.

Amazon Web Services had previously disclosed a similar move in October 2023. Previously, Microsoft only allowed certain data processing within the EU, but with this new development, it will now also include data found in system-generated logs. With the growing complexity and global dispersion of data storage for large enterprises, Microsoft aims to bring clarity and aid in compliance with privacy regulations.

According to Chief Privacy Officer Julie Brill, Microsoft's upcoming phase involves secure storage for temporary technical support data. Additionally, they plan to introduce a paid support option, ensuring initial technical responses originate within the EU.