Services

Google Voice Setup

Details
Category: Services

What you’ll need

  • A Google account (personal) or a Google Workspace account (business).
  • One mobile or landline number to verify and optionally forward calls to.
  • 10–15 minutes and a quiet spot to record your voicemail greeting.

Path A: Personal Google Voice (free)

  1. Sign in at voice.google.com.
  2. Choose a number by city/area code, or port an existing number (one‑time fee).
  3. Verify a forwarding phone; decide whether rings go to the app, your phone, or both.
  4. Record a clear voicemail greeting; enable voicemail transcription.
  5. Turn on spam filtering; set Do Not Disturb hours.
  6. Install the Android/iOS app; pin the web app on desktop.

Path B: Google Voice for Workspace (paid)

  1. In Admin console, assign a Voice license to the user.
  2. Pick or port a number; set the E911 service address.
  3. User signs in at voice.google.com and verifies their device number.
  4. Optionally set policies: caller ID, call recording, retention.
  5. Future‑proof: ring groups and auto‑attendant can be added later.

Recommended defaults

  • Spam filter: on
  • Call screening: off (enable if robocalls persist)
  • Do Not Disturb: 9pm–7am local time
  • Voicemail transcription: on
  • Voicemail greeting: short, mentions SMS option
  • Notifications: push + email for voicemail

Caller ID & texting behavior

  • Calls placed from the Voice app show your Google Voice number.
  • Calls from the native dialer may show your carrier number unless routed via Voice.
  • Texting works in the Voice app and on the web; keep image attachments lightweight.

Porting tips (if moving a number)

  • Unlock the number and obtain the port‑out PIN from the current carrier.
  • Keep the old line active until the port completes to avoid rejection.
  • Test inbound calls on Voice before cancelling the old service.

Quick setup checklist

  • Create/confirm Google or Workspace account
  • Pick or port your number
  • Verify forwarding phone
  • Record voicemail and enable transcription
  • Turn on spam filter; set DND schedule
  • Install the mobile app and sign in
  • Test outbound/inbound calling and SMS

Optional polish

  • Set custom routing hours (work vs personal).
  • Create saved text replies for FAQs (hours, directions, pricing).
  • Add your Voice number to your website, Google Business Profile, and email signature.

Notes: Features and interfaces can change; some capabilities (auto‑attendants, ring groups, retention policies) require Google Voice for Google Workspace. Emergency calling requires a correct service address (E911) in Workspace.

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