Making calls over IP via Gmail - General Questions and Answers

What is the voice calling capability found in Gmail (on the desktop) called officially? I've been trying to search for solutions for this, but I don't even know what to call it- Google has SO many voice services now (chat, talk, voice, etc) that all sound like the same thing, yet aren't!
Here's what I'm looking to do:
I used the phone call function in Gmail to call abroad a few weeks ago via my laptop. I put about $10 into my balance there because it was cheaper per minute to call outside the US than Skype was. Worked perfectly.
Now, I'm trying to see if I can replace my netbook with a Tablet, so I'm trying to make those same calls from Android. I'll be honest, I'm wishing I had picked Skype to put the $10 credit on! Skype seems pretty straight forward- install it on the android device, make calls. But I've already spent the $10 on Google, so I'd like to find a way to make this work!
I tried going to Gmail from the browser and seeing if there was a link to install an app or something to make calls (like there is on the desktop side of things), but there is nothing there (ok, I didn't really expect it to work like that, but worth a try).
Is this part of a google chat application or something? Or is there no way to use that calling credit on an Android device??

I don't know for sure, but here are two options:
* Change the user agent in your Android browser to "Desktop" and use that interface. Though I am not sure if there will be issues with that.
* Use Google Voice. Which I am pretty sure is part of the same service they are using for Gmail calling. I use this for everything so I can read and send texts from my computer.

Tubes6al4v said:
I don't know for sure, but here are two options:
* Change the user agent in your Android browser to "Desktop" and use that interface. Though I am not sure if there will be issues with that.
* Use Google Voice. Which I am pretty sure is part of the same service they are using for Gmail calling. I use this for everything so I can read and send texts from my computer.
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Click to collapse
So, I tried the first one, but it requires a browser plugin to work (which is windows/mac only, so I can't get past that point).
Google Voice sounds like it could be it... but as far as I know, GV on Android doesn't actually let you place calls over IP yet, does it?
I thought it requires you to have a phone number it can call and then connect you via regular cellular minutes to the other party?
The device I'm using for this is a Tablet PC, so there isn't even a cellular radio or phone call system present. I'm trying to determine if I can replace a netbook for all the functions I use it for. This is something I know I can do on the netbook over wifi using the dialer in gmail, so I'd like to know I can do it on the Tablet as well. Does GVoice do that?

It's a paid app, but download GrooVe IP. It's the same thing that you did on your laptop, but with Android.
It is a third party app. But you get free, reliable calling anywhere in the US and get to use Google Voice's cheap international calling plans. [Edit: Over wifi, of course]

Dishe said:
So, I tried the first one, but it requires a browser plugin to work (which is windows/mac only, so I can't get past that point).
Google Voice sounds like it could be it... but as far as I know, GV on Android doesn't actually let you place calls over IP yet, does it?
I thought it requires you to have a phone number it can call and then connect you via regular cellular minutes to the other party?
The device I'm using for this is a Tablet PC, so there isn't even a cellular radio or phone call system present. I'm trying to determine if I can replace a netbook for all the functions I use it for. This is something I know I can do on the netbook over wifi using the dialer in gmail, so I'd like to know I can do it on the Tablet as well. Does GVoice do that?
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Click to collapse
the new google talk for android 2.3.4 allows for vid chat (so probably just voice as well), over wifi or 3g. there are ways to get it on 2.3.3 devices, for some devices, maybe not all, don't know. but, i chatted with my buddy from my phone to his pc, so it's definitely a voip service

im doing google voice from my gingerbread phone (EVO 4G) as my primary line... i dont pay a monthly cell phone service... i get picture mail, txt messages, internet, and unlimited cell service.
Pbxes+Google Voice= Unlimited
I have no delay on my phone, it sounds better than sprint when i had it...
the only catch is; u have to have Wifi around... basically everywhere i go its wifi avaliable....

jojo757 said:
im doing google voice from my gingerbread phone (EVO 4G) as my primary line... i dont pay a monthly cell phone service... i get picture mail, txt messages, internet, and unlimited cell service.
Pbxes+Google Voice= Unlimited
I have no delay on my phone, it sounds better than sprint when i had it...
the only catch is; u have to have Wifi around... basically everywhere i go its wifi avaliable....
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Click to collapse
Is this only Google Voice for Gingerbread that supports that? Or is this a new feature in GV in general? Last I checked they didn't support it...

+1 for GrooveIP. Its much easier than the alternatives imo.

WiredPirate said:
+1 for GrooveIP. Its much easier than the alternatives imo.
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Click to collapse
But if Google Voice has a native app that does this for free, I'm totally game! Nice to know there are choices, tho!

Dishe said:
But if Google Voice has a native app that does this for free, I'm totally game! Nice to know there are choices, tho!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, Google Voice does not do what GrooveIP does. When you have no cell coverage or lose cell coverage GV will drop your call or not place it, defeating the point. Even though you are on wifi you cannot place a call with GV w/o cell coverage. With GrooveIP you dont have to have cell coverage, you dont even need a sim.

I'm trying out this Groove IP right now. I must say I'm impressed by the call quality and the seemless functionality of the program. Not a huge fan of the constant notification, but I can live with it. OP it sounds like you should use this program, it's 3.99 in the market but boy is it worth it!

jojo757 said:
im doing google voice from my gingerbread phone (EVO 4G) as my primary line... i dont pay a monthly cell phone service... i get picture mail, txt messages, internet, and unlimited cell service.
Pbxes+Google Voice= Unlimited
I have no delay on my phone, it sounds better than sprint when i had it...
the only catch is; u have to have Wifi around... basically everywhere i go its wifi avaliable....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I setup pbxes + google voice and it seems to work most of the time. I'm interested to know how you are getting picture mail though - I thought googlevoice only supported txt messages.

k4p741nkrunch said:
I'm trying out this Groove IP right now. I must say I'm impressed by the call quality and the seemless functionality of the program. Not a huge fan of the constant notification, but I can live with it. OP it sounds like you should use this program, it's 3.99 in the market but boy is it worth it!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You can turn off the notification in the settings :]
And OP, Android 2.3+ has built in support for SIP addresses. You register with a provider online, and they'll route your calls. It's a bit more complicated to set up, and typically costs (But sites like PBXes will give them out for free if you use them at least once a month). You typically get a US number and can set that up with Google Voice. Apps like csipsimple and sipdroid are alternatives for supporting SIP if you don't have Android 2.3+
I suggested GrooVe IP because it's a 1 step setup (Login with your Google account and you're done), and is identical quality to the calling through Gmail because there's no middleman. It's certainly possible to set it up for free using SIP instead, and there are some great guides on google.

I am getting picture mail because: I had a Google voice number before I got me Sprint number. Then I migrated my Sprint # to my Google voice acct.
Since then my Sprint service was disconnected because I recently lost my job, so I decided since I was out of contract anyway i'll say forget Sprint and use my Google voice acct. But back to how I got picture mail, when they disconnected my Sprint acct they didn't disconnect the Sprint number because it migrated over to my Google voice.
So when I call my Sprint number it forwards it to my GV number... But to get picture mail (keep in mind my Sprint acct has been disconnected for like a month) u have to have mobile network always on, and have wifi connected at the same time, if someone sends me a picture mail it'll come thru but I can't download the picture (not by Sprint network), but since I have wifi on it'll download the picture for me (Sprint can't officially cancel the number because u migrated over to GV, so now its your number for good. The only catch u can't respond to the picture mail and u can only respond thru the Google voice app.
Back in April sipdroid gave people a way to merge pbxes & Google voice... So since I upgraded to gingerbread, I no longer use sipdroid and I use the built-in internet call feature in gingerbread...
So I have service like everyone else with no problem, just no 3g or 4G service, all wifi on my phone.... Plus I can use my Bluetooth with my phone with no problem...
Hopefully talk understood that, if not PM me and i'll try to break it down...
Sent From Evo

Related

[Q] T-Mobile and Voicemail

This is a question for anyone on T-Mobile... is there any way to get around the ridiculous charge for listening to your voicemail? Unfortunately HulloMail isn't available for WP7 and probably won't be for a while but something like that would be ideal.
I'm pretty sure they charge for voicemail on all their plans which is ridiculous indeed. My girlfriend had it free a few weeks ago because she had a quite old plan still going on but she recently upgraded and now has to pay for voicemail too.
Well, despite the fact that there is no HulloMail app for WP7 I set up an account anyway and it seems to work fine. The only difference is that because there is no dedicated app I don't get notifications when I receive voicemail. However, as you can set HulloMail to automatically sync with your inbox this isn't much of an issue; when I receive voicemail I get sent an email allowing me to either call back (using my minutes allowance) or listen to the message in a browser. Hopefully, they will make an app at some point but until then this is still better than paying extra on top of my monthly bill every time I miss a call.
google voice ?
just use google voice ? its fairly easy to setup, automagic archives, works nice.
ohgood said:
just use google voice ? its fairly easy to setup, automagic archives, works nice.
Click to expand...
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Ain't Google Voice US only ? Ya might wanna check the little flags next to their profiles.... they be tea lovers !

Free call with Droid Charge especially for non Verizon coverage area

Required :
1. The phone of course (Samsung Droid Charge), other Android and iPhone working too.
2. Wifi Hotspot.
3. An active phone number on other phone (CDMA or GSM).
4. LINE from NAVER or VIBER from Viber Media, Inc (Download from market) and many other app available.
Let's begin :
1. Connect ur Droid to WIFI hotspot, download the app (LINE/VIBER) if you don't have it yet.
2. Run the app and register with an active phone number. The app will send SMS with a code to the registered phone number that app needed.
3. Complete the registration.
4. Add the phone number u need to call to ur Droid contact.
5. Enjoy ur call with the app.
NB:Calling/messaging function only work to the relevant app registered users. Most app only work for Android and iPhone and a few including Blackberry.
How is this different than Google voice?
Sent from my SCH-I510 using Tapatalk
adrialk said:
How is this different than Google voice?
Sent from my SCH-I510 using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Voice doesn't make VOIP calls, it requires an actual number to connect to. However, you could get a plan that allows you to make calls to specified numbers without using minutes, then set your GV # as one of them, and make all the calls you want without using minutes.
GVoice makes VOIP calls. I measured the bandwidth at the router when I was on WIFI. I also set up a phone with no service with a different phone number. I also tested GVoice on WIFI by changing throughput and testing jitter and the effect on the VOIP calls.
I used Groove, I didn't try the calls with another method, although a Gchat session should work the same.
Sent from my SCH-I510 using XDA App
adrialk said:
How is this different than Google voice?
Sent from my SCH-I510 using Tapatalk
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Click to collapse
I'm talking about free calls and available for all country. Does Google voice free and available for all country? I don''t think so....
Chien35 said:
I'm talking about free calls and available for all country. Does Google voice free and available for all country? I don''t think so....
Click to expand...
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Thanks for the post, I didn't actually catch that. I was just stating that GVoice does indeed use VOIP if it is set up to do so. I believe GVoice allows for free calls to US and Canada, as well as free calls from another country into the US and Canada.
Your solution is pretty awesome if you need that service. I would like to see an analysis of codec quality, delay, bandwidth usage, jitter, etc to see how it compares to GVoice. Google keeps saying that free GVoice calls will expire, but so far its been renewed. It will be nice to have an alternative, particularly a good, free alternative.
Have you tried your method with success? How is the subjective call quality and call drop rate, etc?
Thanks for the info
xdadevnube said:
Thanks for the post, I didn't actually catch that. I was just stating that GVoice does indeed use VOIP if it is set up to do so. I believe GVoice allows for free calls to US and Canada, as well as free calls from another country into the US and Canada.
Your solution is pretty awesome if you need that service. I would like to see an analysis of codec quality, delay, bandwidth usage, jitter, etc to see how it compares to GVoice. Google keeps saying that free GVoice calls will expire, but so far its been renewed. It will be nice to have an alternative, particularly a good, free alternative.
Have you tried your method with success? How is the subjective call quality and call drop rate, etc?
Thanks for the info
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
U need high speed connection/WIFI to get better call quality.
I have used these apps and prove it work succesfully. The only issue is the call have a delay about 1 sec, so u need to be patient to wait the answere after u speak coz ur voice will be heard after the delay.
Viber will only allow free calls to other Viber users, unless they changed that at some point. And GV must have changed then if you can make calls with it VOIP style with no cell service and only wifi, as it was only a call forwarding service before, meaning you still needed to have the ability to make calls through the phone.
imnuts said:
Viber will only allow free calls to other Viber users, unless they changed that at some point. And GV must have changed then if you can make calls with it VOIP style with no cell service and only wifi, as it was only a call forwarding service before, meaning you still needed to have the ability to make calls through the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know you can use the web version of Google Talk as an endpoint for outgoing calls now. I haven't messed with any versions on device though (and if it works, we'd still probably have the audio issue on the Charge).
I used Google voice in Puerto Rico to place free calls over wifi. You can't be in airplane mode because it uses the normal dialer, but it does not use any cellular airtime to place the call.
Google voice integrates well with the android OS. My gf uses it to stay under her 450min plan.
Sent from my SCH-I510 using Tapatalk
I use it that way on my device, but it does use airtime.
imnuts said:
Viber will only allow free calls to other Viber users, unless they changed that at some point. And GV must have changed then if you can make calls with it VOIP style with no cell service and only wifi, as it was only a call forwarding service before, meaning you still needed to have the ability to make calls through the phone.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, I can only speak regarding usage of GVoice with GrooveIP. Otherwise a phone call would have to be initiated in Google Chat. Without Groove, you probably won't know you have an incoming call, at least not in time to answer it.
My buddy uses Groove all the time on his WiFi with excellent results- it works okay on 3G in good coverage and it works excellently on 4G. I have enough minutes and crappy coverage so I generally don't use Groove a whole lot, but it sure is cool to be able to send/receive calls anytime to your GVoice number. I also set up the Google Voice app on the phone alongside Groove (I configured Google Voice app somehow not to notify/bother me). Groove does the phone calls and Google Voice app does the text. This way you can send/receive calls and texts for free without delays. It works brilliantly, and its nice to forward Verizon's voice mail to GVoice, then configure GVoice to forward an email for each text, voicemail, and missed call you get.
If I had better coverage, I would only use GVoice. There is a bit more delay with GVoice than a 1X call, I would say, but not bad.
Is it verified that Viber only works to other Viber callers?
I'm a little cynical that somehow the carriers will try to crack down on Google Voice users or that Google will at some point stop free calling.
xdadevnube said:
Is it verified that Viber only works to other Viber callers?
I'm a little cynical that somehow the carriers will try to crack down on Google Voice users or that Google will at some point stop free calling.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It works to call anyone, but it is only free calling if the other user is also a Viber user. They may have changed it since I last looked though, but probably not.
shrike1978 said:
I use it that way on my device, but it does use airtime.
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Click to collapse
Which one u used? My method or Google voice?

SIP Trunk anyone?

Anyone else seen this yet... simonics.com/gvgw
You need a Google voice number... (free)
NO im not spamming this.. i found it ON MY OWN and found it to be really useful since it works. Don't be haters... try it or not... its free and up to you.
I use this with my phone. There are places at my work where the only connection i have is WiFi... this solves the problem and i don't need stupid software to use it... just go to the site, set it up, and put the settings into your phone settings for internet calling.
Ive been using this for a few months now... and no, my Google account has not been hijacked and is a secure encrypted connection through a asterisk server and secure ports.
Read the FAQ on the site... its really simple and works.
our certyles
I've been testing it out a bit, it seems to work pretty well. I plan to drop my phone plan soon actually and just use a Verizon LTE hotspot.
I want to make sure I've got a method fairly reliable in place to make calls/texts with GV, and so far I've had success with the callback method, grooveIP (though the audio still sounds a bit funky), and using simonics and csip simple.
simonics + csip seemed to be the most reliable, though I've hit a snag: It's not allowing me to register my simonics account when I'm connected to my LTE hotspot. Works fine on any other wifi though.
silverwater25 said:
I've been testing it out a bit, it seems to work pretty well. I plan to drop my phone plan soon actually and just use a Verizon LTE hotspot.
I want to make sure I've got a method fairly reliable in place to make calls/texts with GV, and so far I've had success with the callback method, grooveIP (though the audio still sounds a bit funky), and using simonics and csip simple.
simonics + csip seemed to be the most reliable, though I've hit a snag: It's not allowing me to register my simonics account when I'm connected to my LTE hotspot. Works fine on any other wifi though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
How does this work? Doesn't a Google Voice number have to forward to a real number and be attached to one? Do you have another number that the GV is attached to?
I don't use a single app for this.
*Setup a Google voice (free)
- set your ringback as Google chat.
*Setup a pbxes.org account (free)
- set a trunk that points to your gchat
If you're on an AOSP ROM, open dialer, go to settings, scroll to bottom, internet call settings, accounts, point to your pbxes account.
Done!
Now you have free incoming + outgoing calls over WiFi or 4G. Even 3G as well.
If you use the sipdroid app (by pbxes.org ppl) instead of the built-in AOSP SIP stack you get more audio encoding options and the ability to pass your calls thru a VPN. Pretty sweet
kennyglass123 said:
How does this work? Doesn't a Google Voice number have to forward to a real number and be attached to one? Do you have another number that the GV is attached to?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm still learning about all this, it's been pretty confusing as it's all new stuff for me. I'll try to explain what I know (or what I think I know)
Internet calls (VOIP) are typically free when connecting to another internet connection (ex. Skype, Kakao, Seed, etc). PSTN (regular phone numbers) cost money to connnect. Google Talk, which is VOIP,. lets you call a PTSN for free from your desktop. This seems pretty unique and likely will not last forever I'm guessing.
Install a softphone on your device, and you're bypassing your carrier's calling network.
Calls coming in:
Now, it's possible to setup a free VOIP account and attach a "real" number to it as a way to connect to the outside world. This service called IPkall can give you a recycled Wash. state number and let you get calls on iit for free. I attached one of these to a Callcentric VOIP account..When someone rings my google voice number, it will ring my IDKall/Callcentric number, which oh yeah doesn't cost me anything.
Calling out:
Callback method: Using apps like the Google Voice Callback, you can do the same thing as you can from your desktop, which is have Google Voice ring one of your numbers while simultaneously calling the number you want to call. Google Voice is acting like the bridge between your phone and the one you're calling. Like you said you need a "real" number to make calls like this with google voice, but if your VOIP account is attached to a "real" number then it doesn't know the difference.Typically your carrier would charge you money/minutes to call your google voice number, but since you're connecting for free with a softphone/VOIP then you're only be charged for whatever data you use.
GrooveIP/Simonics Google Voice Gateway: I really don't know how these work, but my best guess is they're just simplifying the process for you, setting up the second VOIP account automatically.
So I'm annoyed that Csip Simple/simonics isn't working for me when I connect to my verizon sch-lc11 jetpack I picked up a few days ago (the verizon guys were pretty confused when I turned down a free iphone 4s, heh). Groove IP seems to be working all right now, if that fails then I can go back to the callback method, or maybe try setting up a pbx.
Setting the phone up so that it can receive SIP calls tends to chew through battery a little quicker.
Having said that...if you want to do your own thing and have an old pc (or even Raspberry Pi) laying around, check out PBX in a Flash (sorry I can't post links, just Google it). I've been running this setup for about two years to replace my land line with a google voice number and it works great. I've expanded my setup to have a home office number as well. All free. You can also set up your cell as a SIP or IAX extension and have the satisfaction of doing it yourself.
You can also purchase an obi100, and use the ObiTalk app.

[Q] Google Voice on Kit Kat 4.4

Hi everyone. I am planning on getting the Nexus 5 and I am planning to get the $30 a month plan from T-Mobile which allows for 100 minutes of talk, unlimited texts, and 5 GB of 4G Data. I was planning on using the Google Talk app with Groove IP or talkatone to call because I already have my Google Voice number and I just want to use my data to call people (In other words, I want to use VOIP so I can call with Google Voice over my data). With the integration of Google voice and hangouts will I still be able to do that? Please someone reply because I am ordering the Nexus 5 in a few days (I am waiting for reviews first).
maxell505 said:
Hi everyone. I am planning on getting the Nexus 5 and I am planning to get the $30 a month plan from T-Mobile which allows for 100 minutes of talk, unlimited texts, and 5 GB of 4G Data. I was planning on using the Google Talk app with Groove IP or talkatone to call because I already have my Google Voice number and I just want to use my data to call people (In other words, I want to use VOIP so I can call with Google Voice over my data). With the integration of Google voice and hangouts will I still be able to do that? Please someone reply because I am ordering the Nexus 5 in a few days (I am waiting for reviews first).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
On the same boat, I'm sure you will for now, keep in mind Google has announced they are killing 3rd party access to GV next year so u will have that VoIP capability for so long. I'm on ST now but do plan on porting over to TMO next month and do plan on milking VoIP Talkatone for as long as I can till they completely kill it. Google I believe may fully offer a full VoIP solution which would in fact be great to have.
I don't know about Groove but Talkatone has announced they r working on a new product that mirrors it's current capabilities (sans GV), looking forward to what they r cooking up.
miamidesigner said:
On the same boat, I'm sure you will for now, keep in mind Google has announced they are killing 3rd party access to GV next year so u will have that VoIP capability for so long. I'm on ST now but do plan on porting over to TMO next month and do plan on milking VoIP Talkatone for as long as I can till they completely kill it. Google I believe may fully offer a full VoIP solution which would in fact be great to have.
I don't know about Groove but Talkatone has announced they r working on a new product that mirrors it's current capabilities (sans GV), looking forward to what they r cooking up.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
So if Google offers full VOIP, then there is no need for third party apps right? And you are saying that Talkatone is working on something just like Google Voice?? But the only thing is, with talkatone, you will most likely get another number, and then you have to go through the process of switching numbers like telling everybody about your new number and making sure htye change it and........its just a big hassle. I hope Google extends the deadline or I might have to switch to the $45 plan from straight talk. How is the HSPA+ on their network? Is it close to 4G. I am fine if it is not as fast as 4G but I want it more faster than 3G for sure and I know it is that. I am still debating on using Google Voice still or just switching to Straight Talk.
The Walmart plan does not allow for call forwarding or conditional forwarding so you will never be able to setup Google voice to be your voice mail system... Just a heads up..
Sent from another Nexus..
7 LTE...
maxell505 said:
So if Google offers full VOIP, then there is no need for third party apps right? And you are saying that Talkatone is working on something just like Google Voice?? But the only thing is, with talkatone, you will most likely get another number, and then you have to go through the process of switching numbers like telling everybody about your new number and making sure htye change it and........its just a big hassle. I hope Google extends the deadline or I might have to switch to the $45 plan from straight talk. How is the HSPA+ on their network? Is it close to 4G. I am fine if it is not as fast as 4G but I want it more faster than 3G for sure and I know it is that. I am still debating on using Google Voice still or just switching to Straight Talk.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Correct, no more 3rd party apps needed. No idea on how/what Talkatone would offer but my guess is yes a new # would be needed. Gotta wait and see.
On ST I actually have LTE, pre LTE days my internet was horrible, since they launched LTE everything has been really smooth, haven't experienced any throttling yet *knock on wood*. Honestly I'm happy with ST but wouldn't mind saving the extra 15 bucks a month and getting 2x the limit. My only worry is service, here in Miami I have heard a lot of dead spots for TMO, whereas ATT I was with them for like 15 yrs and never have a problem. I'm still gonna try TMO, benefits of having my main number on GV I could cancel and just get any new carrier # whenever I want.
miamidesigner said:
Correct, no more 3rd party apps needed. No idea on how/what Talkatone would offer but my guess is yes a new # would be needed. Gotta wait and see.
On ST I actually have LTE, pre LTE days my internet was horrible, since they launched LTE everything has been really smooth, haven't experienced any throttling yet *knock on wood*. Honestly I'm happy with ST but wouldn't mind saving the extra 15 bucks a month and getting 2x the limit. My only worry is service, here in Miami I have heard a lot of dead spots for TMO, whereas ATT I was with them for like 15 yrs and never have a problem. I'm still gonna try TMO, benefits of having my main number on GV I could cancel and just get any new carrier # whenever I want.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh ok I didn't know ST ever switched. I heard that ST throttles after 2.5 GB of data which really, isn't all that bad. I think I am going to stick with TMO for right now or atleast until Google stops their third-party app service.
maconsultant said:
The Walmart plan does not allow for call forwarding or conditional forwarding so you will never be able to setup Google voice to be your voice mail system... Just a heads up..
Sent from another Nexus..
7 LTE...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Voice has its own voicemail service that will notifiy you of a voicemail via the Google Voice app or through the GV web interface. When I was on Straight Talk I checked all my voicemails through the Google Voice app.
Sent from my SGH-I747
stelv said:
Google Voice has its own voicemail service that will notifiy you of a voicemail via the Google Voice app or through the GV web interface. When I was on Straight Talk I checked all my voicemails through the Google Voice app.
Sent from my SGH-I747
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But when you setup the google voice app it tries to set that option (conditional call forwarding to google voice's voicemail).. Which it cant as the Walmart plan does not support this feature, But yes you can do it through the app thats correct, but i rather full integration.. But if you don't have the finances or the credit to get a post paid account (THE ONLY PLANS THAT SUPPORTS THE FORWARDING FEATURE) and you need to opt for the Walmart plan i guess you have to do what you have to do.
Either way gets it done...
Yea it's all good to me either way. You will still get a GV Voicemail notification. There are some downsides to pre paid. I had straight talk for a year and then went to att. But kind of regret having a contract now. I am going to try aio wireless before too long here.
Sent from my SGH-I747
I am planning on using a tablet sim card and using it in addition to a Verizon dumb phone. T-Mobile has terrible coverage in my area, and I need to make calls.
Sent from my Transformer TF101 using Tapatalk 4
stelv said:
Yea it's all good to me either way. You will still get a GV Voicemail notification. There are some downsides to pre paid. I had straight talk for a year and then went to att. But kind of regret having a contract now. I am going to try aio wireless before too long here.
Sent from my SGH-I747
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So if i just go to the ST website and get a sim card from there, can i transfer my google number to a straight talk number? Like is that possible to do?
maxell505 said:
So if i just go to the ST website and get a sim card from there, can i transfer my google number to a straight talk number? Like is that possible to do?
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You don't transfer your Google Voice number to Straight Talk. Straight Talk will give you a Straight Talk number. Then you download the Google Voice app. When you first open the Google Voice app on your android device it will take you through configuration. I set mine to " use Google voice to make all calls" and I don't even use my carriers number at all.
So you will have 2 phone numbers. You give out which ever one you want to. The GV number will work only if you have the Google Voice app installed. You can also send/receive text only texts and receive voicemail via the Google Voice app. Google Voice also works on a desktop computer through its web interface. You can also block numbers via Google Voice.
stelv said:
You don't transfer your Google Voice number to Straight Talk. Straight Talk will give you a Straight Talk number. Then you download the Google Voice app. When you first open the Google Voice app on your android device it will take you through configuration. I set mine to " use Google voice to make all calls" and I don't even use my carriers number at all.
So you will have 2 phone numbers. You give out which ever one you want to. The GV number will work only if you have the Google Voice app installed. You can also send/receive text only texts and receive voicemail via the Google Voice app. Google Voice also works on a desktop computer through its web interface. You can also block numbers via Google Voice.
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Click to collapse
Ok, so after I do that, I can just install an app likek Groove IP or Talkatone and then just make and recieve calls too right? I am just going to give out my Google Voice number to everyone so when they call me, I will receive the call through Google voice on the native dialer app on Android or am I going to receive the call through an app like Groove IP or Talkatone
maxell505 said:
Ok, so after I do that, I can just install an app likek Groove IP or Talkatone and then just make and recieve calls too right? I am just going to give out my Google Voice number to everyone so when they call me, I will receive the call through Google voice on the native dialer app on Android or am I going to receive the call through an app like Groove IP or Talkatone
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It gets kind of tricky when you want to use a VoIP like GrooveIP to make and receive calls over data/wifi instead of your carriers phone service. You can set your phone to natively use your Google Voice number to make/receive all calls, but it will use your plans minutes instead of data if you do not have GrooveIp or Talkatone setup correctly (it will come through your native android dialer and use your tmobile minutes by default).
I have attached a link for a guide that was originally written in the Galaxy Nexus forum. It has a guide to Google Voice + VoIP calling. I have used GrooveIP on my wifi only tablet to make calls over wifi, but have never tried bypassing carrier phone service on my cellphone using GrooveIP. It can be done though.
*Also be aware Google has said they will eventually disable access to Google Voice from third party apps so this may mess things up in the future. Have a backup plan ready just incase they do this. We may be only abel to ue the Hangouts app in the future. Also you cannot send or receive pic and vid messages via Google Voice, just text only messages.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1646755
stelv said:
It gets kind of tricky when you want to use a VoIP like GrooveIP to make and receive calls over data/wifi instead of your carriers phone service. You can set your phone to natively use your Google Voice number to make/receive all calls, but it will use your plans minutes instead of data if you do not have GrooveIp or Talkatone setup correctly (it will come through your native android dialer and use your tmobile minutes by default).
I have attached a link for a guide that was originally written in the Galaxy Nexus forum. It has a guide to Google Voice + VoIP calling. I have used GrooveIP on my wifi only tablet to make calls over wifi, but have never tried bypassing carrier phone service on my cellphone using GrooveIP. It can be done though.
*Also be aware Google has said they will eventually disable access to Google Voice from third party apps so this may mess things up in the future. Have a backup plan ready just incase they do this. Also you cannot send or receive pic and vid messages via Google Voice, just text only messages.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1646755
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
ok so I cannot send and recieve pic or vid messages but I can just use another app like GoSMS or some other apps that use your regular phone number(in my case, my google voice number) to send and recieve text messages right? I am thinking that i should not get a plan first when I get my nexus. Like set it up and everything by using wifi to send and receive calls and texts and then later on I will get a plan and just forward my number that i get once i get my plan to my google voice number.
maxell505 said:
ok so I cannot send and recieve pic or vid messages but I can just use another app like GoSMS or some other apps that use your regular phone number(in my case, my google voice number) to send and recieve text messages right? I am thinking that i should not get a plan first when I get my nexus. Like set it up and everything by using wifi to send and receive calls and texts and then later on I will get a plan and just forward my number that i get once i get my plan to my google voice number.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You will have to use a carriers phone number to send pic and vid messages. Google Voice's servers cannot handle that type of data, so you cannot send/receive pic/vid messages with your GV number at all. A Google Voice number is only good for makings calls and TXT, not SMS or MMS.
If you are going to use your Nexus on wifi only with no plan, you can use GrooveIP to make/receive calls over wifi. You will need a strong data connection though. Its best to stand near the router. You will need a Google Voice number to use with GrooveIP over wifi. In summary you will need: Google Voice number + Google Voice app + GrooveIP or Talkatone + strong wifi signal
You can also use the Hangouts App to text and video call people over wifi. The people you are contacting will need a gmail account and have the hangouts app open and running on their phone or computer.
stelv said:
You will have to use a carriers phone number to send pic and vid messages. Google Voice's servers cannot handle that type of data, so you cannot send/receive pic/vid messages with your GV number at all. A Google Voice number is only good for makings calls and TXT, not SMS or MMS.
If you are going to use your Nexus on wifi only with no plan, you can use GrooveIP to make/receive calls over wifi. You will need a strong data connection though. Its best to stand near the router. You will need a Google Voice number to use with GrooveIP over wifi. In summary you will need: Google Voice number + Google Voice app + GrooveIP or Talkatone + strong wifi signal
You can also use the Hangouts App to text and video call people over wifi. The people you are contacting will need a gmail account and have the hangouts app open and running on their phone or computer.
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Click to collapse
Ok thank you, that really helped. I will probably end up using talkatone just because it has good call quality even on 3G. At least that was was it said on that article you linked. Now on the talkatone website( http://www.talkatone.com/ ), It shows an iPhone that has talkatone and he sent a picture message to someone else and he also received a video message from someone else. Does this mean that you can send mms through talkatone only.
maxell505 said:
Ok thank you, that really helped. I will probably end up using talkatone just because it has good call quality even on 3G. At least that was was it said on that article you linked. Now on the talkatone website( http://www.talkatone.com/ ), It shows an iPhone that has talkatone and he sent a picture message to someone else and he also received a video message from someone else. Does this mean that you can send mms through talkatone only.
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Click to collapse
I don't know much about talkatone I have never used it. As far as I know the only carrier or data provider that has had success with pic messages via a Google Voice number is Sprint. Doesn't work anywhere else.
Other people using the talkatone app may be able to receive pic/vid messages through talkatone but not if you send via a GV number. Possibly if you are sending via some other type of method or account. Not totally sure.
edit deleted fb link it was an old link
stelv said:
I don't know much about talkatone I have never used it. As far as I know the only carrier or data provider that has had success with pic messages via a Google Voice number is Sprint. Doesn't work anywhere else.
Other people using the talkatone app may be able to receive pic/vid messages through talkatone but not if you send via a GV number. Possibly if you are sending via some other type of method or account. Not totally sure.
edit deleted fb link it was an old link
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Click to collapse
Ok thank you. Can you please close this thread because I do not know how to do it.
Glad to help. I think a moderator has to close a thread. But it's OK if it stays open. Someone else may need this info in the future.
Sent from my Nexus 7

[Q] Porting T-Mobile Number to Google Voice?

Hi guys, after the Hangouts Google Voice merge, I've been highly tempted to port my number over to Google Voice. The main thing that attracts my attention is how all my texts will be stored on the cloud so I won't have to constantly backup and restore when flashing different ROMs (approx. once a week). What do you guys think on this? I'm hesitating right now due to the $20 fee and that if I send an MMS picture, it shows up as a link on the other side. Also, I tried calling using my current GVoice number, and my mom said its not as clear. Do you guys think it'll be worth it?
ryukiri said:
Hi guys, after the Hangouts Google Voice merge, I've been highly tempted to port my number over to Google Voice. The main thing that attracts my attention is how all my texts will be stored on the cloud so I won't have to constantly backup and restore when flashing different ROMs (approx. once a week). What do you guys think on this? I'm hesitating right now due to the $20 fee and that if I send an MMS picture, it shows up as a link on the other side. Also, I tried calling using my current GVoice number, and my mom said its not as clear. Do you guys think it'll be worth it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
As far as the call quality of using the Hangouts Dialer/your Google Voice number vs. regular calls- at least over WiFi I noticed a difference, but not so much that it interfered with the call or understanding the person on the other end, for me. Haven't tried it over normal LTE data at this point.
I've used Google Voice for a long time (since my Evo 4G days, even a little before that) and having all my texts backed up was one of the big draws. I don't use Google+ Hangouts, so I also can't speak to text backups there but if your experience is that your texts are there and waiting for you right now, I can't imagine that would change.
So, in my estimation, it kind of depends on what you want more: backups vs. call quality. I don't make a lot of calls, so I'm more on the side of texting and having a single number that I can then use for multiple lines, but that's just me. Hope some of this helped!
I find the call quality to be good, the big issue is you don't get HD Voice. So if your mom is on T-Mobile with an HD Voice capable phone you will get HD Voice when making a regular T-Mobile call with your Nexus 5, while the Hangouts calling is just a standard voice quality level. I had no issue using it over LTE, but I haven't tried 3G. I would think an Edge area would definitely give you a problem.
Keep in mind that you can always continue to use the call forwarding feature rather than the VOIP functionality. This won't solve the issue of no HD voice, but it will work in Edge areas without issue.
Joshmccullough said:
As far as the call quality of using the Hangouts Dialer/your Google Voice number vs. regular calls- at least over WiFi I noticed a difference, but not so much that it interfered with the call or understanding the person on the other end, for me. Haven't tried it over normal LTE data at this point.
I've used Google Voice for a long time (since my Evo 4G days, even a little before that) and having all my texts backed up was one of the big draws. I don't use Google+ Hangouts, so I also can't speak to text backups there but if your experience is that your texts are there and waiting for you right now, I can't imagine that would change.
So, in my estimation, it kind of depends on what you want more: backups vs. call quality. I don't make a lot of calls, so I'm more on the side of texting and having a single number that I can then use for multiple lines, but that's just me. Hope some of this helped!
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Click to collapse
raptir said:
I find the call quality to be good, the big issue is you don't get HD Voice. So if your mom is on T-Mobile with an HD Voice capable phone you will get HD Voice when making a regular T-Mobile call with your Nexus 5, while the Hangouts calling is just a standard voice quality level. I had no issue using it over LTE, but I haven't tried 3G. I would think an Edge area would definitely give you a problem.
Keep in mind that you can always continue to use the call forwarding feature rather than the VOIP functionality. This won't solve the issue of no HD voice, but it will work in Edge areas without issue.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the replies! Is HD voice a big difference compared to normal? My mom had a Moto X FYI. Can you explain more on call forwarding? I don't know how it works or what it is. Does it forward a call from your GVoice number to your regular Sim card number? If that's the case, will there be a delay?
ryukiri said:
I'm hesitating right now due to the $20 fee ...
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Click to collapse
You can avoid $20 fee by porting to Ring.to then have Ring.to forward to Google Voice totally free of charge. :highfive:
ryukiri said:
Thanks for the replies! Is HD voice a big difference compared to normal? My mom had a Moto X FYI. Can you explain more on call forwarding? I don't know how it works or what it is. Does it forward a call from your GVoice number to your regular Sim card number? If that's the case, will there be a delay?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, you can set it up to forward calls to your SIM number instead of using VoIP. I imagine there is a slight delay for the call to forward but there's no delay while speaking. The call gets forwarded so it is actually handed off from Google Voice to your carrier, just like when your phone forwards to voicemail.
ryukiri said:
Hi guys, after the Hangouts Google Voice merge, I've been highly tempted to port my number over to Google Voice. The main thing that attracts my attention is how all my texts will be stored on the cloud so I won't have to constantly backup and restore when flashing different ROMs (approx. once a week). What do you guys think on this? I'm hesitating right now due to the $20 fee and that if I send an MMS picture, it shows up as a link on the other side. Also, I tried calling using my current GVoice number, and my mom said its not as clear. Do you guys think it'll be worth it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I would like to add a few things.
First off, remember that if you opt in for the Hangouts and Google Voice integration, the text messages will be stored in the Hangouts application, and not Google Voice. It is a plus to have the messages backed up, but I wouldn't say that was the winner for me.
The winner for me is being able to send SMS messages from the Hangouts extension for Chrome Browser on my work PC, or any other PC/Laptop for that matter. Everything is consolidated now in one app. Whereas before I would use the Google Voice extension to text, Hangouts is just nicer to use. More functional. Better user interface.
I ported my number a while back from Sprint, and I'm a Tmo subscriber as well. A few words of caution: the biggest drawback is MMS, or lack thereof. For me, I don't really use it. I send all pics and MMS content through Hangouts already. What bugs me is when people send me MMS content to my Google Voice number, and I'm never aware of it, since I can't receive it. (I can get MMS from other Tmo subscribers though).
Since I travel a lot internationally, it's nice being able to use your same number for texting and calling over data. If you make your Google Voice number your primary number, that's another perk.
I use Skype as my main calling app. (I have a yearly subscription with them to make unlimited calls to landlines and mobile in the U.S.). When I need to, I make calls through Tmo. As stated before, don't expect to be able to make calls over data if you're on EDGE. Even 3G might be skeptical. If you've got 1Mbps down/up speeds, you'll be all right. Use speedtest to check out your data speeds where you plan on making calls over data.
Overall I would recommend it. I didn't mind the $20 bucks. If you're on a budget, look into alternative means of porting, as stated above. Any other questions, ask away.
jnbanda said:
I would like to add a few things.
First off, remember that if you opt in for the Hangouts and Google Voice integration, the text messages will be stored in the Hangouts application, and not Google Voice. It is a plus to have the messages backed up, but I wouldn't say that was the winner for me.
The winner for me is being able to send SMS messages from the Hangouts extension for Chrome Browser on my work PC, or any other PC/Laptop for that matter. Everything is consolidated now in one app. Whereas before I would use the Google Voice extension to text, Hangouts is just nicer to use. More functional. Better user interface.
I ported my number a while back from Sprint, and I'm a Tmo subscriber as well. A few words of caution: the biggest drawback is MMS, or lack thereof. For me, I don't really use it. I send all pics and MMS content through Hangouts already. What bugs me is when people send me MMS content to my Google Voice number, and I'm never aware of it, since I can't receive it. (I can get MMS from other Tmo subscribers though).
Since I travel a lot internationally, it's nice being able to use your same number for texting and calling over data. If you make your Google Voice number your primary number, that's another perk.
I use Skype as my main calling app. (I have a yearly subscription with them to make unlimited calls to landlines and mobile in the U.S.). When I need to, I make calls through Tmo. As stated before, don't expect to be able to make calls over data if you're on EDGE. Even 3G might be skeptical. If you've got 1Mbps down/up speeds, you'll be all right. Use speedtest to check out your data speeds where you plan on making calls over data.
Overall I would recommend it. I didn't mind the $20 bucks. If you're on a budget, look into alternative means of porting, as stated above. Any other questions, ask away.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
OK thanks! So one question regarding SMS, I already opted in for them to show up on hangouts. I'm pretty sure that even after I factory reset my phone, my texts will still be I'm hangouts after I log in and everything. Is that correct? My texts won't disappear after a full wipe or anything? (Texts are stored on the cloud rather than physically on the device right?)
Yeah I love that feature of being able to text from a computer also. Its very convenient.
Hopefully MMS gets fixed soon, I don't use it much but every once in a while, my friend sends me pictures.
ryukiri said:
OK thanks! So one question regarding SMS, I already opted in for them to show up on hangouts. I'm pretty sure that even after I factory reset my phone, my texts will still be I'm hangouts after I log in and everything. Is that correct? My texts won't disappear after a full wipe or anything? (Texts are stored on the cloud rather than physically on the device right?)
Yeah I love that feature of being able to text from a computer also. Its very convenient.
Hopefully MMS gets fixed soon, I don't use it much but every once in a while, my friend sends me pictures.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I believe, but I am not sure, that SMS are only stored in cloud storage if they are from/to your Google Voice number. I think that texts that are sent to your carrier number are not backed up.
If you port your current telephone # to GV, T-Mobile will automatically cancel your current account. It does not automatically reassign a random number to your account once you port your mobile # out.
PaisanNYC said:
If you port your current telephone # to GV, T-Mobile will automatically cancel your current account. It does not automatically reassign a random number to your account once you port your mobile # out.
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Can we just go to a store and do it there? Like port the # to GV, and then have them assign another one to my phone?

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