Tico Times Directory Blog

Is Skype Shutting Down In Costa Rica?

No Skype in Costa Rica?

When Skype voice over-the-internet system was offered in Costa Rica, it was a welcome alternative to ICE’s monopoly on phone services. For a flat rate, Costa Ricans could call just about anywhere for a fraction of the cost … now that may change due to a legal spat over a licensing agreement.

Online retailer eBay bought Skype in 2005 for about US$2.6 billion.  HOWEVER, that deal didn’t include the peer-to-peer (P2P) networking technology (non-geekism definition: peer to peer networking sites, like Limewire has been under fired for copyright violations, letting users download music) on which it runs. That technology is owned by a company called Joltid and licensed to Skype.

San Jose, California-based eBay is asking the English High Court of Justice in London, to find that Joltid’s efforts to terminate the agreement are invalid and that Skype is not in breach of the licensing agreement. And Joltid is attempting to terminate the agreement based on allegations that Skype has breached its terms. Skype said that it strongly refutes those allegations and is confident of its legal position. Skype currently uses Global Index technology from Joltid to make its P2P connections on the back-end and, without this technology; Skype would just become a shell without the software engine to drive it.  Read more... (488 words, 2 images, estimated 1:57 mins reading time)

Mac, Apple, Macintosh Repair Technicians

Just because you have a Mac, it does not mean you are not without help in Costa Rica

Yes, I know Mac is better, but not quite true in Costa Rica, that is if you have problems.  Always check your warranty before you bring your Mac (or any other computer for that reason) to Costa Rica, regardless if you bought the extended warranty package. Most Warranty Agreements DO NOT cover the computer outside the US. If work has to be done, expect to pay 2-3 times the amount and expect a wait. A new power cord and/or hard drive can take the guru or store weeks for the part.

Below are some of the Mac Gurus and Service Centers that will probably be able to help you or know were you can get help if your Mac has problems. The best thing to do is email or call first to make sure they are still in business. Most computer gurus are around $30/hr and plus travel time. So if you live in Jaco and your guy is coming from San Jose, expect to pay about 3/hrs for travel. Also, remember you are on Tico Time … mañana or ‘tomorrow’ really means sometime during the week . If you can,  always take your computer to the person/store and it will save you a lot of time and grief.  Read more... (1011 words, 2 images, estimated 4:03 mins reading time)