Google Voice is a handy service that lets you make calls and send texts using a virtual phone number.
It’s great for people who want a second number or need to manage calls across different devices. To sign up for Google Voice, you’ll need a Google account and a U.S. phone number to link it to.
alt=’A person using a laptop to visit the Google Voice website.
They are filling out a form with their personal information and clicking the “Sign Up” button’>
Getting started with Google Voice is easy.
You can use it on your computer or smartphone.
Once you’re set up, you can enjoy features like voicemail transcription and call screening.
It’s a useful tool for both personal and business use.
Key Takeaways
- Google Voice provides a virtual phone number for calls and texts
- Users need a Google account and U.S. phone number to set up Google Voice
- The service offers features like voicemail transcription and works on multiple devices
Getting Started with Google Voice
Google Voice gives you a new phone number that works on your devices.
You’ll pick a number and link it to your current phone.
This lets you make calls and send texts from the Google Voice app or website.
Choosing Your Google Voice Number
To get started, go to the Google Voice website.
Sign in with your Google Account.
If you don’t have one, you’ll need to make one first.
Once signed in, follow the on-screen instructions to set up your Google Voice number.
You can choose a number based on your location or select from the available options.
If you’re also looking for information on how to sign up for Google My Business, you can visit Google’s support page for step-by-step guidance.
Click “Search” to find a number.
You can look for numbers by area code or city.
Pick one you like.
Google Voice offers both local and toll-free numbers.
Local numbers are good for personal use.
Toll-free might be better for business.
Once you find a number you want, click to select it.
Google will ask you to confirm your choice.
Verifying Your Existing Phone Number
After picking your Google Voice number, you need to link it to your current phone.
This is called verification.
Enter your real phone number when asked.
Google Voice will call or text you with a code.
Put the code in when prompted.
This proves you own the phone number.
You can link up to 6 numbers to your Google Voice account.
This lets calls ring on multiple phones.
After verification, your Google Voice number is ready to use.
You can now make calls and send texts through the app or website.
Setting Up Features and Preferences
Google Voice offers many options to make calls and texts work just how you want.
You can change settings, link phones, and use the app on different devices.
Customizing Google Voice Settings
The Google Voice website lets you tweak lots of settings.
You can pick a new voicemail greeting or record your own.
Set up call screening to hear who’s calling before you answer.
Choose how you want missed call alerts sent to you.
Turn on Do Not Disturb when you need quiet time.
Pick which linked phones should ring for each contact.
You can even block annoying callers.
Text messages can be sent to your email too.
Just turn on this option in settings.
You’ll never miss an important message again.
Linking Phones and Forwarding Calls
Google Voice works best when you link your other phone numbers.
This lets calls ring on all your devices at once.
To link a phone, go to Settings and click “New linked number”.
You’ll get a code to verify each phone.
For cell phones, you’ll get a text.
For landlines, Google Voice will call you.
Set up call forwarding to send calls to any linked phone.
You can even have calls go to different phones based on who’s calling or the time of day.
Installing Google Voice on Android and Windows
The Google Voice app makes calling and texting easy on your Android phone.
Just download it from the Play Store and sign in.
You can make calls, send texts, and check voicemail right from the app.
On Windows, use the Google Voice website in your browser.
It works just like the app.
You can make calls if you have a microphone on your computer.
For the best experience, use Google Chrome.
It lets you make calls directly from the browser without any extra software.
Frequently Asked Questions
Google Voice sign-up can vary depending on your device and situation.
Here are some common questions people have about getting started with Google Voice.
How do I create a Google Voice account on my iPhone?
To create a Google Voice account on an iPhone, first download the Google Voice app from the App Store.
Open the app and sign in with your Google account.
Follow the prompts to choose a Google Voice number and link it to your iPhone.
What are the steps to sign up for Google Voice on an Android phone?
On Android, go to the Google Play Store and download the Google Voice app.
Open the app and sign in with your Google account.
Pick a Google Voice number from the available options.
Link your Android phone number to your new Google Voice account.
Is there any cost associated with signing up for Google Voice?
Google Voice is free to sign up for and use within the United States.
Calls to US and Canadian numbers are free.
International calls may have fees.
Some advanced features for businesses might have costs.
Can I use Google Voice without an existing Google account?
No, you need a Google account to use Google Voice.
If you don’t have one, you’ll need to create a Google account first.
It’s free and easy to set up on the Google account creation page.
What might prevent me from getting a Google Voice number?
Google Voice numbers may not be available in all areas.
If you’ve had a Google Voice number before, you might need to wait before getting a new one.
Some phone carriers might also block Google Voice services.
Where can I download the Google Voice app for my Samsung device?
Samsung devices use Android, so you can download the Google Voice app from the Google Play Store.
Search for “Google Voice” in the store app on your Samsung phone or tablet.
Then, tap “Install” to download and set up the app.