When it comes to versatile solutions for free phone lines and service, Google Voice can be a great option. The positives surrounding this service often far outweigh the cons, and while there are alternatives available, few offer the same range of free and full services that are provided by Google Voice. Without paying a penny, you can get access to a range of features, including the ability to forward incoming phone calls to any mobile phone or online softphone, receive and send texts through a phone or web app, and record voicemails.
For many small businesses with limited budgets, Google Voice is the perfect solution for handling business communications. However, Google Voice was primarily designed to be used by consumers - rather than business owners. Even in spite of all it's great features, many people still wonder whether this is the right solution compared to full VoIP providers.
Review Time - What is Google Voice?
Google Voice is a virtual phone service that's provided by Google for free. If you have a Gmail account or Google account, then you can sign up and receive your Google Voice number. New users need to supply a forwarding number, so you still have to have a mobile telephone. Once you're signed up, Google will let you choose a free number with almost any area code, which you can use to start receiving and making calls, as well as sending SMS and text messages.
All this functionality can come straight from your web browser, or it can make use of the Google Hangouts softphone so that you can get access to all the free calls you like. From the same app, you can also access voicemail transcripts and recordings, text almost any number, and more. Some of the features you can find in Google Voice include:
- Video conferencing through Google Hangouts
- Basic conferencing calls for people in the U.S.
- Call history log display
- Call forwarding
- Transcribed and recorded voicemails
- Sending and receiving texts and SMS
- The ability to make and receive phone calls from apps and mobile phones
- The ability to act as a forwarding system for an existing mobile number
So, What Can't it Do?
As a free service, Google Voice doesn't necessarily "have it all". However, the limitations on this service will only be as frustrating as your business allows them to be. After all, different companies require different voice solutions.
