What is Google Voice?
Since Google Voice hit the market in 2009, it has revolutionized VoIP (voice over Internet Protocol) as being a cloud-based service best designed for phone calls and messaging, this network allows you to use everything that happens in real time as a call-forwarding service. All you need is an internet connection and, as long as you have a mic and a speaker set up on the tool in use, or perhaps even your headphones, you can use it on the phone, laptop, desktop, or any device with a screen! Like any good system, voice transcription, greetings, and voicemail—all things made to keep things professional, simple, and cost-effective.
How Much is Google Voice?
The pricing structure for Google Voice is simple: FREE (for personal use) calls and texts in the USA with unlimited options (if you have a USA phone number). All incoming calls are free. You’ll need credits for calls to other countries, or to Canada, but international use or calls require a subscription (cheap compared to other VOIP services). Curious about the international rates? Google Voice has a really cool call rates feature: just select your starting and destination country, and it will show you the price.
How does Google Voice Work?
It’s a cloud-based VoIP service and incredibly easy to use; it relies on a good broadband connection. It turns your voice into digital signals, and travels across the internet allowing you to talk from a phone or desktop. For mobile, make sure you download the Google Voice app from the Google Play Store. Note: it is only available in some countries—check to see if you are in the list!
How To Get Started With Google Voice?
If you are new to Google Voice, don’t panic; it is very easy to get started. This is your quick-start guide:
Step 1: Sign In
Go to Google Voice in your web browser, and sign in using your Google Account.
Step 2: Select Google Voice Phone Number
Once you are in, select your Google Voice number. You can search for a number you like, choose a unique number if one is available for free, and even select a city or area code to see what is available in a specific area. You can even get a virtual number from anywhere by putting in the area code!
Step 3: Verify your Existing Phone Number
After you select your number, you will have to verify your real phone number. Click on "Verify," enter your number, enter the code you receive, and click "Verify."
Step 4: Confirm and you are ready to go
Now you just have to confirm your number and click "Finish" twice, and you are ready to go! If you are planning on using your phone, install the Google Voice app from the App Store, sign in, and get started!
Benefits of Using Google Voice for Business
As business grows, so does the complexity of communication with multiple channels to manage. Switching between phones and existing phone numbers can be cumbersome, but Google Voice helps you manage the chaos. Here are eight benefits of Google Voice for any business:
1) One Central Contact Number
With Google Voice you can link multiple lines to one number. A Google Voice number allows you to receive calls on any devices you sync your phone with the Google Voice app. One number and one app, no going back-and-forth awkward phone number switching.
2) Call from Gmail
Google Voice gives the ability to call from your Gmail inbox to any recipient while having your own Mobile Caller ID display on their phone which encourages direct calls. You can receive calls from Google Voice via your Gmail inbox and Google Hangouts so the necessity for having a phone is no longer required.
3) Unlimited Messaging
Google Voice allows users to send free limitless US based texts. Allowing users to send texts for quick updates, check in, or reminders. Google Voice also works across devices although there is the potential for ease of use with the extensions.
4) Do not disturb forwarding
Switch phones or service carriers for updates without losing a call. Google Voice allows calls to be forwarded to a new phone or service copyright number and your calls continue as normal.
5. Voicemail transcriptions
Google Voice converts voicemails to text and emails it to you - ideal for when you'd like to read rather than listen.
6. Custom Call Controls
Control what happens with your calls using Google Voice, you can send them to voicemail, set call times, or even filter by contacts. You are in charge!
7. Call Recording
Use Google Voice to record calls at the tap of a button, that way you can revisit your plans or conversations and improve your ability to remember and learn.
8. Device Agnostic
Move devices mid-call with Google Voice, just simply click if your battery is dying to switch from your phone to your laptop.
The Drawbacks of Using Google Voice
Google Voice is great, but it isn't perfect:
- Limited Integrations: Works seamlessly with Gmail and Google Home, but struggles with non-Google Voice supported tools.
- Users Limit: The free version limits the number of users to 10.
- No Collaboration or Share plan: Google Voice doesn't have any features for team collaboration. Even with call forwarding and recordings it doesn't have a collaborative option.
- No toll-free numbers: this is a downside for some businesses.
The Top Google Voice Alternatives in 2025
Although Google Voice starts at $10/person/month (with Google Workspace), it also has limitations on enterprise benefits that may be an issue for growing teams. Here are some alternatives:
1. Zoom Metered
Zoom Metered ($10/user/month) does not require a Workspace account and provides many useful security features with spam control for high call volumes. However, outbound calls come at a fee, and the integrations are also limited.
2. MagicJack
MagicJack ($9.99/user/month), good news, no hidden fees—nothing but savings for your money-conscious business.
3. Dialpad
Dialpad ($15/person/month) provides voicemail to text, call flows, and video (but lacks concierge-caliber call queues), so it makes sense for teams that make regular calls, but not huge call volumes.
Conclusion:
Google Voice is the perfect tool to connect with people on all of your devices to call or message people at anytime, and anywhere. It is free for personal use and has a very reasonable pricing structure for business compared to the amount of money you would spend on other VOIPs; that is what makes it such a great platform for a small business. Larger companies may have to look for more extensive features with a different platform from Google Voice.
FAQs
- Is Google Voice Free?
Google Voice is still free for personal use; you must purchase subscriptions for business use, but they are still cheap compared to most other VOIPs. - Does Google Voice work internationally?
Yes, Google Voice works outside of the United States, and your costs will vary depending on which country you select to call. However, only select countries offer Google Voice. - What is the disadvantage to Google Voice?
Google Voice affords you the opportunity to receive calls, send messages and receive voice mail messages etc., but you cannot collaborate with your team. Also, Google Voice does not integrate with anything that is not a GOOGLE authentication application. - Will I be able to access Google Voice on an IPhone and what other devices?
Yes, Google Voice works on iOS applications like IPhone, IPad and Ipod Touch. Voicemails, calls and message is available on all applications for Android devices as well.