Breaking news

Microsoft to Retire Skype in Favor of Teams This May

As of May 5th, Microsoft will cease support for Skype. This move, confirmed through the company’s blog, encourages users to transition to Microsoft Teams—a platform that has become increasingly central to their strategy.

Key Facts Of The Transition

  • Skype support will officially end on May 5, 2025, as Microsoft shifts focus to Teams.
  • Microsoft Teams offers free access on all supported devices using the same credentials as Skype.
  • Chats and contacts will be synced automatically between Skype and Teams to ease the transition process.
  • Skype and Teams will run concurrently for a limited period, allowing cross-platform communication.

A Look Back: The Journey Of Skype

Launched in 2003 and acquired by Microsoft in 2011 for over $8 billion, Skype transformed communication with its platform.

Despite its early popularity, Skype’s usage dwindled with the rise of platforms like Zoom and Microsoft Teams.

As Microsoft continues to innovate with Teams, we also see major strides in technology across the globe.

The Rocks Project Advances Through Licensing Process In Pentakomo

Overview Of The Ambitious Development

A large tourism development in Pentakomo is moving through the licensing process. Known as The Rocks Project, the proposal includes a hotel, villas, apartments and a beach club along the coast east of Limassol.

Strategic Location And Broader Impact

Located along the coastal corridor between Limassol and Zygi, the project would form part of the wider Governor’s Beach area. The site is situated near several state and energy infrastructure facilities, including the Evangelos Florakis Naval Base in Mari, making it subject to additional planning and regulatory considerations.

Master Plan And Key Infrastructure

Situated within the administrative boundaries of Pentakomo, the development is planned for the coastal area of Argaki Tou Mavrou. The project is being promoted by DRL5COMOS Properties Ltd and is supported by an environmental impact assessment prepared by P. Nikolaidis & Associates Ltd. The assessment is available for public consultation until July 3, 2026.

According to the master plan, operations are expected to begin in 2029. Plans include a 14,000-square-metre hotel with 126 rooms, a 900-square-metre spa and wellness centre, restaurants and dining facilities, 26 villas, 73 apartments and penthouses, and a 1,050-square-metre beach club with indoor and outdoor leisure areas. Parking facilities for 240 vehicles are also included in the proposal.

Integration With The Existing Landscape

The development plan allocates 12% of the site to public green space and includes an internal road network. Project documents indicate that several existing structures, including the Kalymnos Fish Tavern and current beach facilities, would be demolished as part of the redevelopment.

Regulatory And Institutional Considerations

The licensing process is ongoing and includes consultations with relevant local and government authorities. Comments submitted by the Ministry of Defence have not been made public due to the site’s proximity to the naval base. Those observations are expected to be reviewed by the environmental impact assessment committee during closed sessions.

Conclusion

With its carefully structured vision and strategic positioning, The Rocks Project promises to be a significant catalyst for economic and social growth in eastern Limassol. As it advances through the regulatory process, stakeholders remain focused on ensuring that this landmark development meets the highest standards of design, sustainability, and community integration.

eCredo
Aretilaw firm
The Future Forbes Realty Global Properties
Uol

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