Microsoft outage disrupts Japan for 9 hours; government and businesses affected

Microsoft experienced a major outage across its 365 services, including Outlook and Copilot, leaving email and other functions disrupted worldwide, including Japan, for over nine hours as of 11:30 a.m. on the 13th, with no full recovery yet. The company stated it is switching to alternative routes and confirmed limited restoration, but users continue facing issues like inaccessible email. Japan's Digital Minister Furukawa confirmed disruptions in the government's GSS base system, though alternative tools like phone and chat are being used to maintain operations. Businesses are also affected, with a major trading firm and electronics maker reporting difficulties, and a large food manufacturer shifting order work to chat. Users express concern over prolonged impact, urging a swift fix as the outage's duration remains uncertain.