Microsoft reveals massive financial growth once again, cloud and AI lead the way

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Microsoft revenue up 12% YoY

Microsoft Copilot on a laptop.
(Image credit: Shutterstock)
  • Overall Microsoft revenue rises again, with AI tools pushing it forward
  • Annual revenue run rate for Microsoft's AI business is up 175% YoY
  • Microsoft opened two new data center regions last quarter

Microsoft revenue climbed a very healthy 12% year-over-year in the final three months of 2024, bringing the total quarterly figure to $69.6 billion and surpassing previous analyst expectations.

In an official announcement, CEO Satya Nadella noted Microsoft's AI business’s annual revenue run rate now stands at $13 billion, up 175% year-over-year.

“We are innovating across our tech stack and helping customers unlock the full ROI of AI to capture the massive opportunity ahead,” said Nadella.

Microsoft revenue propped up by AI

CFO Amy Hood confirmed Microsoft Cloud revenue for the most recent quarter rose 21% year-over-year to $40.9 billion. Key to its success has been the growing demand for AI tools and data centers.

The company was keen to highlight Copilot in Excel with Python, the launch of Microsoft Places, LinkedIn upgrades, and two new data center region launches – New Zealand North and Taiwan North, as particularly key recent AI launches.

Speaking on the earnings call, Nadella added: “We have more than doubled our overall data center capacity in the last three years.”

Microsoft 365 Consumer cloud revenue grew by 8%, with its Commercial counterpart seeing a 16% growth, with businesses looking to invest in connected services powered by artificial intelligence.

The substantial double-digit growth is largely responsible for Microsoft’s recent financial success, but other areas of the business also saw minor upticks. Its Windows OEM and Devices revenue increased by 4% while Xbox content and services revenue increased by 2%, indicative of slow but steady consumer interest.

However, while the deprecation of Windows 10 is set to see consumer spending rise when it comes to hardware and software updates, some personal customers have been left with a bitter taste in their mouths after Microsoft 365 subscriptions became more expensive this month. Some Australian customers are seeing price hikes of up to 46%.

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Craig Hale
Craig Hale

With several years’ experience freelancing in tech and automotive circles, Craig’s specific interests lie in technology that is designed to better our lives, including AI and ML, productivity aids, and smart fitness. He is also passionate about cars and the decarbonisation of personal transportation. As an avid bargain-hunter, you can be sure that any deal Craig finds is top value!

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