Communication in the 21st century is fueled by a number of advancements in technology and tools providing a pathway for personal, professional and widespread connection. Stepping into this digital era, the basics of communication remains the same however the art of providing the tools has changed. With the invention of smart phones and more improvised features along with the power of the internet, the game has changed even further.
Communication is vital for the normal functionality of a human or an organization, and we are always on the lookout for making the process simpler and efficient. One way to do so is with the help of Google Voice.
Whether you are a small business owner, a freelancer, a leader of any kind or a traveler; if you are looking for ways to make and receive international calls or send text messages using one universal number all on a budget, then a popular choice would be to go for a Google Voice number; a virtual phone that works as a perfect communication tool for any personal or business needs.
Google voice is a free telephone service that allows its users to use only one phone number across multiple phone numbers i.e. work, personal, etc. Google voice users can make and receive incoming calls, block numbers, make conference calls, cheaper international calls, forwards calls to any device, voicemail transcripts, call recording and so much more. It is a free and can be easily accessible through any device. Google Voice primarily gives the users the ability to use one universal number in place of all existing numbers.
If you’re a new to using Google voice, then worry not, we will give you a walkthrough on how to create Google Voice Account and help you get familiarized with the entire setup process. It’s simple and easy, let’s get started.
But first, a look into what is Google Voice and what are its features?
Google Voice is a free voicemail service launched by Google that allows its users to make and receive calls, send free text messages, block spam calls, screen calls, customize their voicemail, conduct conference calls, voicemail text transcripts, record calls and so much more. Additionally, one can avoid the hassle of carrying multiple phone numbers (i.e. work, personal, etc.), all incoming calls and texts will be made from one virtual number. This unique service is free for all its Gmail users and can be accessible via any device.
How to use Google Voice?
Once users create their free account on Google Voice, Google will set one given phone number that users have selected to connect them across all devices working from mobile phones to desk phones, work phone, home phones to VoIP lines no matter what the location. Google voice allows users to manage multiple numbers or phones with just one universal number, and letting them customize the ringtone based on specific callers.
Features of Google Voice
Apart from Google Voice’s most defining feature of using one single number in place of all existing ones without replacing the other numbers. Google voice has a number of key features that one should not miss out.
- Users can listen on voicemail first before answering calls
- Set priorities on certain phones to ring depending on specific calls
- Call routing
- Read voicemail text transcripts
- Make international calls at cheaper rates
- Record calls on Google Voice
- Screen calls
- Send, save texts and voicemails via emails
- Get voicemail notification via emails or SMS
- Customize voicemail greetings
- Block spam numbers and calls
- Free Google Voice text messaging or SMS
- Conduct conference calls
- Free PC to phone calls
- Free PC to PC voice and video calling all over the world
- Switch phone devices
How to create a Google Voice account?
Whether you need it for making personal or business calls, Google Voice is a useful tool. It can make and receive calls on any device using simply just one number.
If you haven’t already created a Google Voice number, then get started with these few simple steps. Here is how you can set your account on Android or on iPhone or even the web browser.
- Setting your Google Voice number on Android
Google Voice is great and efficient way to use. Here is how you can set up a Google Voice on Android
Step 1: If you don’t have a Google Voice account on your android phone then you will need to download and install the Google Voice app from Google Play store.
Step 2: Sign into your Google account.
Step 3: Once in, you’ll need to tap Search to select a Google Voice number based on the city or area code. If your location is enabled on your device than it will automatically show up a few suggested area code to select from.
Step 4: Click Select option when you choose the number, tap Next to confirm the selected number. This is the number that all your contacts will see when they call you.
Step 5: Google Voice will confirm the number, tab on the Accept Number.
Step 6: Next you will need to verify an existing number. This is in case you did not already add a mobile phone number to your Google account. Click Send Code to verify your account.
Step 7: You will need to click on the Allow button to give Google Voice the permission to access your contacts.
Once all steps are completed, you’re ready to use your Google Voice phone number.
- Setting your Google Voice number on iPhone
Step 1: If you haven’t already installed the Google voice app on your iPhone, then head over to the App store and download it.
Step 2: Launch the app. Click on Continue once Google recognizes your account.
Step 3: Hit the Accept button to agree to the terms and conditions.
Step 4: Next you will need to search for the Google Voice number by city or area code.
Step 5: Once you have chosen the number that you like from the list. Click Select.
Step 6: Click next and enter your existing phone number to verify your account. Tap on Send Code and enter the code.
Step 7: Google will alert that your account is added and ready to use.
Step 8: Tal on Allow to give google permission to access your contacts and send notification.
Step 9: You will receive an alert message that all calls will show up in the Google Voice app.
There you, your Google Voice number is ready to use. All you have to do now is to get start on dialing.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How to create a Google Voice mail account?
Go to voice.google.com or download the Google Voice app on Google Play store or on App store. Search for available area code, select the Google Voice number of your choice, and lastly verify your account with your existing phone number.
- Is Google Voice Free?
Creating an account on google voice and the apps are absolutely free as long as you have a Google account. One can access most of the feature except for some paid features such as number porting, call recording, making international calls depending on where you are calling from.
- Can only users with professional accounts use Google Voice?
No, anyone can use Google Voice whether it’s for personal or professional use.