Google Voice allows users to get a supplementary phone number with helpful tools like free calls, texts, and voicemail. Acquiring a number takes just a few simple steps outlined here. We'll explain the registration process which includes verifying your current number and selecting a new one. Next, we'll cover customizing settings and downloading the app. Finally, we'll discuss how to use your new Google Voice number for its varied communication functions. By following this concise guide, you can easily obtain and set up your Google Voice number to access benefits like integrated voicemail, messages, and more.
How to Sign Up for a New Google Voice Phone Number
Prerequisites
Before you begin, make sure:
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You have a Google account
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You have an existing phone number to verify with
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Google Voice is available in your country
Step 1: Go to voice.google.com
Navigate to the Google Voice website by going to voice.google.com. Click on "For personal use" and agree to the terms and privacy policy.
Step 2: Choose a Google Voice number
You'll be presented with available local numbers, but you can also search by a specific area code or phrase. Select the number you want for your Google Voice account.
Step 3: Verify with your existing number
Enter your current phone number and choose to receive a text or call with a verification code. Input the code to verify ownership of your number. This links your number to your Google Voice account.
Step 4: Confirm your number is linked
You'll see a confirmation that your existing number is now linked. Your Google Voice number will ring when someone calls.
Step 5: Explore the Google Voice dashboard
The dashboard allows you to make/receive calls, send/receive texts, check voicemail, and see your call history. You can now use your Google Voice number.
Step 6: Customize settings
In settings, you can add linked numbers, change voicemail greetings, screen calls, block numbers, enable transcriptions and more. Configure Google Voice to your preferences.
Step 7: Use Google Voice on your devices
The Google Voice app allows you to use your Google Voice number on your smartphone, tablet, or computer over wifi or a data connection. You can now text and call from anywhere.
Benefits of a Google Voice Number
Getting your own Google Voice number comes with many great benefits:
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Make unlimited calls within the US and Canada for free - Google Voice uses your wifi or cellular data to make Voice over IP (VoIP) calls. This allows you to call any number without using up cellular minutes.
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Send and receive unlimited texts - Google Voice provides a free way to send SMS and MMS messages. You can text from your Google Voice number on any device.
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Custom voicemail greeting - Record a personalized voicemail greeting for your Google Voice number. View and manage voicemails online or via the app.
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Call screening and blocking - Screen calls by hearing a caller leave a message before deciding whether to pick up. Easily block unwanted callers.
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One number for all devices - Have one Google Voice number ring multiple devices like your cell, home phone, work phone, etc.
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Online call management - Manage calls and voicemails through the Google Voice website or mobile app. See transcripts and call history.
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Separate personal and work calls - Maintain a separate Google Voice number for business so you don't have to share your personal cell.
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Protect your primary number - Keep your private cell number secure by only giving out your Google Voice number.
Conclusion
Signing up for a Google Voice number only takes a few minutes but provides you with an incredibly useful additional phone line. By following this step-by-step guide, you can register for a new Google Voice number, verify your existing number to link it, select a customized or local number, configure settings like call forwarding and voicemail, download the mobile app, update your contacts, and start using your new number right away. With unlimited free calling and texting, call screening, online management, and more benefits, a Google Voice number is a great tool for communication and privacy. Sign up for yours now to take advantage of everything Google Voice has to offer!
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