google voice phone number-google voice number

What is a Google Voice Phone Number?

1. Definition:
   • Google Voice is a telecommunications service by Google that provides a free phone number for calling, text messaging, and voicemail.
   • It allows users to forward calls to any device, such as a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
2. Features:
   • Call Forwarding: Direct incoming calls to multiple devices.
   • Voicemail Transcription: Convert voicemail messages into text.
   • Text Messaging: Send and receive SMS texts.
   • International Calling: Make low-cost international calls.
   • Call Screening: Listen to voicemails as they are being left.
   • Number Porting: Transfer your existing phone number to Google Voice.
   • Do Not Disturb: Send calls directly to voicemail.

How to Use Google Voice

1. Setting Up Google Voice:
   • Create a Google Account: If you don’t already have one, create a Google account.
   • Access Google Voice: Go to the Google Voice website (voice.google.com) or download the Google Voice app from the Play Store (Android) or App Store (iOS).
   • Choose a Google Voice Number: Follow the prompts to choose a number. You can search for available numbers by city or area code.
   • Verify Your Existing Phone Number: Google will send a verification code to your current phone number to link it with your Google Voice account.
2. Using Google Voice for Calls and Texts:
   • Making Calls:
     • Open the Google Voice app or website.
     • Click on the dial pad icon and enter the number you want to call.
     • Choose whether to call using your Google Voice number or your linked number.
   • Sending Text Messages:
     • Open the Google Voice app or website.
     • Click on the message icon.
     • Enter the recipient’s phone number or select a contact.
     • Type your message and send.
   • Receiving Calls and Texts:
     • Incoming calls will ring on all devices where Google Voice is set up.
     • Incoming texts will appear in the Google Voice app and website.
3. Voicemail:
   • Setting Up Voicemail: Go to the Google Voice settings and record your voicemail greeting.
   • Listening to Voicemails:
     • Voicemails can be accessed from the Google Voice app or website.
     • Voicemails are also transcribed into text and can be read within the app.
4. Call Forwarding and Screening:
   • Forwarding Calls: In the Google Voice settings, add phone numbers where you want to forward your calls.
   • Call Screening: Enable call screening in the settings to hear the caller’s name before deciding to answer.
5. Do Not Disturb:
   • Enable “Do Not Disturb” in the Google Voice settings to send all calls directly to voicemail for a specified period.
6. International Calling:
   • Add credit to your Google Voice account for making international calls.
   • Check the rates for different countries within the app or on the Google Voice website.
7. Number Porting:
   • If you want to use your existing phone number, go to the Google Voice settings and choose the option to port your number.
   • Follow the instructions provided, which may include a fee.

Additional Tips

• Integration with Other Google Services: Google Voice integrates well with other Google services like Gmail, allowing for seamless communication.
• Privacy: Use your Google Voice number when you don’t want to give out your personal phone number.
• Updates and Features: Google regularly updates Google Voice, adding new features and improving existing ones. Stay updated by checking Google Voice’s support page.

By following these steps, you can effectively use Google Voice for all your communication needs.