Posted on February 8, 2011 // 2 Comments

Overview Nutshell

Google Voice was launched as a limited invitation-only preview service back in 2009, and it was made available to the public in 2010. The service, which will remain free until at least the end of 2011, takes on a “one-number” approach to managing your phone calls, voice mails, text messages, etc. You get your very own telephone number, which you can semi-customize (if it’s available). Basically, the concept is that you give out only that one telephone number, and Google Voice handles the rest. It boasts features like voicemail transcription, call blocking, call forwarding, call screening, etc. Similar services are offered through Skype, Line2, and Wildfire but for a fee.

 

This is not meant to be an instruction manual on Google Voice. These are just some ideas on how you can use the service. We suggest visiting the official site at http://voice.google.com.

 

#1 – Saving a Phone Number

One of the most recently talked about and released features is the ability to port any number to Google Voice. Before this, you could only choose a new number. Now, you can port, essentially, any number (cell phone or land line) to the service. So, if you’re still hanging onto an old number, you can save it by porting it to Google voice for a one-time fee. This is good for people that may have multiple cell phone numbers but don’t want to carry two phones or don’t want to loose one number by terminating service on one of the cell phones. Additionally, people going cell phone only don’t have loose their long-time land line phone number just because they may be getting rid it.

#2 – Calling all Phones at the Same Time

A popular service, offered by many virtual telephone companies, is something referred to as “Call blast” or “Simulring.” This allows one number to ring multiple telephone numbers at the same time. So, you may run your own business and want all of your employees to receive that important phone call. Google Voice allows you the option to set that up. Or, you may be a busy person and be in too many places like at home, work, or on the road. With this feature, you can have all your lines ring at the same time so you don’t miss the call. This is a great alternative to manually setting up call forwarding to point where you may be at or checking different voice mails.

#3 – Text and Call in Out of Service Range Areas

Yes, cell phones are great for calling and texting, but, sometimes, an area may have a weak signal or no coverage at all. Google Voice can send and receive phone calls and text messages via an online interface. So, all you need is an Internet connection – no cell service required. Obviously, a microphone is required.

#4 – Get Rid of Unwanted Callers

One of the coolest features that’s missing on cell phones, and many house phones, is the ability to block specific and ”private”  phone numbers from calling in. You can do this here. Additionally, you can setup custom greetings per phone number or phone number groups. So, if you have an annoying relative, you can send him or her to voicemail or block them entirely.

#5 – Make Free Phone Calls (even on your cell phone!)

One of the main features of Google Voice is the ability to make free domestic phone calls. This can be done via Google Voice’s online interface, cell phones, or right through Gmail. Many cell phone companies offer an “a-list” feature where you get to pick a set of numbers that don’t drain your minutes when called or calling you. You can punch in your Google Voice number into that list and, ultimately, not drain any minutes because Google calls you back with your phone number (the one on the list) even when you make the call. (I’m not advocating to steal service, but the features are available to make this possible. Check with your carrier before proceeding.) The Gmail interface fashions a nice dial pad interface where you can dial domestic numbers for free.

Try it for yourself: http://voice.google.com

*Google Voice logo copyright Google.

Category : Tips