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.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
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?
Related
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.
Click to expand...
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?
Click to expand...
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....
Click to expand...
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.
Click to expand...
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
So, my dad uses a Droid X2. However, he's been considering ditching his phone for a 7" 3g/4g tablet, and using it as his "phone" with a bluetooth headset.
While this isn't something I'd do, i think its a pretty cool idea. Only thing is, if he were to do this, he'd need to be able to call (skype or similar, no prob) and text.
I thought you could do it with skype, but apparently not...
https://support.skype.com/en/faq/FA...e-number-when-sending-SMS-messages-from-Skype
I also know there are third party texting services, but i have no experiences wiht them, i have no idea what's good or not.
So, my real question is - is there any way to be able to call and text from an android tablet using the same phone number?
mtmerrick said:
So, my dad uses a Droid X2. However, he's been considering ditching his phone for a 7" 3g/4g tablet, and using it as his "phone" with a bluetooth headset.
While this isn't something I'd do, i think its a pretty cool idea. Only thing is, if he were to do this, he'd need to be able to call (skype or similar, no prob) and text.
I thought you could do it with skype, but apparently not...
https://support.skype.com/en/faq/FA...e-number-when-sending-SMS-messages-from-Skype
I also know there are third party texting services, but i have no experiences wiht them, i have no idea what's good or not.
So, my real question is - is there any way to be able to call and text from an android tablet using the same phone number?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I know you can call from Skype as well as send texts. I'm not certain about texting from Skype on the mobile device, though. He could use a combination of What's App for texting and Google Voice for calls.
huh. can you tie the two phone numbers together?
mtmerrick said:
huh. can you tie the two phone numbers together?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
What do you mean? Can one device have two phone numbers? No, not from a carrier. You can have one number from a wireless carrier, a Google Voice number, and a Skype number all going to the same device, though.
The only way a single device can get two cellular numbers is if it has two SIM slots.
No, no, i was saying, can you make your skype number and your watsapp-assigned number into the same phone number?
so someone can call or text you using the same number.
There is an app called viber that will assign you the same number for calls and texts. It is the best quality as far as the voip calling goes, and it was just updated so you can send picture messages as well.
mtmerrick said:
No, no, i was saying, can you make your skype number and your watsapp-assigned number into the same phone number?
so someone can call or text you using the same number.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Oh, no. You can't do that. You could just use Google Voice. It does voice and text messages as well as voicemail.
@ lowandbehold - perfect! except for the fact that you (apparently) can't contact anyone who doesn't have viber? That makes it a no-no.
@ cajunflavoredbob - I've heard people say that, but well, look at the attachment, this is voice on my vortex, where is it?
mtmerrick said:
@ lowandbehold - perfect! except for the fact that you (apparently) can't contact anyone who doesn't have viber? That makes it a no-no.
@ cajunflavoredbob - I've heard people say that, but well, look at the attachment, this is voice on my vortex, where is it?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
You have a dedicated GV number that people can send texts to. I don't personally use GV, but The Google Voice home page specifically lists text messages as being free with the GV app.
*googles*
i see that.... but i can't access it.....
and i'm sure you understand that i can't tell someone to buy something to replace their (crucial for day to day life) cell phone with something that i can't prove will work - in fact i have evidence to the contrary.
So, could someone here with a 3g/4g tab or a wifi only android device confirm that you can, if fact, use the google voice app to send/receive calls and texts using your google voice phone number? that'll make/break the deal right there.
mtmerrick said:
*googles*
i see that.... but i can't access it.....
and i'm sure you understand that i can't tell someone to buy something to replace their (crucial for day to day life) cell phone with something that i can't prove will work - in fact i have evidence to the contrary.
So, could someone here with a 3g/4g tab or a wifi only android device confirm that you can, if fact, use the google voice app to send/receive calls and texts using your google voice phone number? that'll make/break the deal right there.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Did you log in to your Google Voice account online and choose a number? Can't send a text if you don't pick a phone number first. Once you choose a number from the settings panel in the website, simply log in to your GV app on your device, hit menu, then compose. It literally took me three minutes to send a text from the GV app to myself after getting a number set up.
I think this number will be handy for giving to women that I'd rather not talk to again after a hard night drinking...
I have a Google voice number, that's different from my cell number.
There is no "compose" anywhere on the app. pressing menu brings up Refresh, Search, Labels, Balance, Settings, and More. More brings up Help and Send feedback.
mtmerrick said:
I have a Google voice number, that's different from my cell number.
There is no "compose" anywhere on the app. pressing menu brings up Refresh, Search, Labels, Balance, Settings, and More. More brings up Help and Send feedback.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Go to Labels > Text. Then hit Menu > Compose.
This might be redundant, but I'm covering all the bases. Keep in mind that when you download the app, Google only gives you a voicemail number. The app alone does not provide a GV number. You don't get the calling/texting number until you log into the website on a PC browser. You then go to the settings icon in the top right side of the page and choose a number for Google Voice. Once that is done, the app will update itself next time you launch it. You might need to go to Menu > Labels > Text (SMS) in order to send a message. Send a message by hitting the menu button while in the inbox and then tapping Compose. Fill in the contact name and message text and hit send.
ah, that's it. i can't used the number that google provided me with, i have to choose a new google voice number. the one google provided me with is no good, apparently. its working now, many thanks.
mtmerrick said:
ah, that's it. i can't used the number that google provided me with, i have to choose a new google voice number. the one google provided me with is no good, apparently. its working now, many thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Heh. I figured that was it. Almost everyone seems to have trouble with that part. It would be nice if Google explained that part a little bit better, eh? Anyway, that should be everything you're looking for in a replacement app. I know that texting is free, but I'm not sure if or how much calls cost. I only know for sure that international calls cost a bit. It's cheaper than Skype either way.
US to US calls are free with google voice, i know that much
you've been a huge help, any chance you could help with the other half of the crossover?
http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=1302560
interesting thread
I wanted to get some opinions on this. I am getting sick of paying out the ass for talk, text, and data with VZW. I am looking to switch after my contract to a prepaid service. But, I am currently thinking about dropping the minutes and texting parts of my plan to use Talkatone with Google Voice so that I only need data, which I have unlimited.
I am wondering if anybody has any experience with this or thoughts on it.
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CarRamrod234 said:
I wanted to get some opinions on this. I am getting sick of paying out the ass for talk, text, and data with VZW. I am looking to switch after my contract to a prepaid service. But, I am currently thinking about dropping the minutes and texting parts of my plan to use Talkatone with Google Voice so that I only need data, which I have unlimited.
I am wondering if anybody has any experience with this or thoughts on it.
Sent from my ThunderBolt using Tapatalk 2
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
With unlimited Google voice in conjunction with an app like sipdroid is the answer to your prayers. I use Google voice as my primary voicemail service & text. Highly recommend just for the ability to check your voicemail with the push of a button.
True that...but just remember gvoice will never let you delete your number unless you feed it a new one. You basically can't quit.
I've been thinking about it too and using it conjunction with ting. How easy is it to port your number back out if you aren't happy with the setup?
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You need to use a new number / GVoice number with any of these options right? Can't keep your VZW number right? Also, is it possible to have only data with a provider and not talk/text?
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Voice let's you choose a number that is your acct number & that number is linked to whichever phone you want it associated with. Specifically, Voice allows you to add and delete cell phone numbers that you indicate should be associated w/your Voice account telephone number. So, I choose Voice acct telephone #617 555-1234; then I link/associate that latter number w/my Vzn cell #617 555-4321. If I change my cell number or just don't want the 4321 number linked to my Voice acct, I just go into Voice and delete the 4321 number.
Oh ok. So if they are linked can people get through to you by calling/texting your vzw number? I mean this in the situation where I would be using Gvoice and Talkatone and not vzw for anything but data.
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Google Voice is pretty amazing. Just remember you'll need a data connection to make calls. Not too much of a problem on Verizon, but you never know where you'll be when you need to make a call.
Yeah well where I live, Pittsburgh area, I'm pretty sure all cell service sucks due to the old/terrible infrastructure and terrain.
Can you have a VZW plan with data only and no voice?
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I've been doing exactly this with a basic 450 min voice, no text and unlimited data plan and using Google Voice with Groove IP to get unlimited calls and SMS over data. It used to work great until the frequent Verizon data disconnects that render it useless. Haven't determined if it's a handset or network issue but hoping it's the former and will be fixed once I upgrade to a new Galaxy Note II handset. Paying $60 total with work discount. BTW, works great over WIFI on home broadband. I was contemplating going all data by dropping voice minutes, if it's even possible, from plan but decided to hang on to it as backup such as driving through areas with no or only 1x data like to Vegas.
I use voice to avoid texting fees on Verizon largely, but don't bother with sipdroid etc as I don't use many minutes.
Pros
$10 saved from dumping text fees
easier access to text and voicemail (I can check via any browser)
Improved voicemail which integrates into android entirely
Neutral
Number change/call forwarding. Plus for me as I can filter calls better and even redirect forwarding to work/home. Getting the new number out can be a pain depending on your situation. If someone dials my old number it still gets to me, but wouldn't use your sipdroid free time.
Data. Probably slight batt drain compared to SMS, but worth getting away from archaic text services to me
Cons
No MMS and it does not even let you know if someone unsuccessfully tries to send you a MMS (I just tell people to email me but people always forget)
No short code texts (so uh, less spam, but I can't get notifications from UPS,Amazon,Pharmacy either)
Voice integration in android leaves some to be desired. Apps that interact with SMS often don't recognize Voice SMS.
mi7chy said:
I've been doing exactly this with a basic 450 min voice, no text and unlimited data plan and using Google Voice with Groove IP to get unlimited calls and SMS over data. It used to work great until the frequent Verizon data disconnects that render it useless. Haven't determined if it's a handset or network issue but hoping it's the former and will be fixed once I upgrade to a new Galaxy Note II handset. Paying $60 total with work discount. BTW, works great over WIFI on home broadband. I was contemplating going all data by dropping voice minutes, if it's even possible, from plan but decided to hang on to it as backup such as driving through areas with no or only 1x data like to Vegas.
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Will this work for you if Verizon takes away your unlimited data?
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).
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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...
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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
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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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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
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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
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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.
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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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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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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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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
I am trying to consolidate all of my calling and texting into one app with one phone number that i can use on any device, I.E. android, windows, and hopefully, IOS in case i need it in the future using only an internet connection. Here is what i have right now, how i use it.
I have a Google voice account with one phone number. The problem with this is that i can't receive or make phone calls, i can only send and receive texts, and limited texts at that. Just to try to increase my text limits, I signed up for a Google business account, but really that just gives me a bunch of extra crap i don't need, I.E. a webpage.
When i first signed up for this account i had Verizon as my carrier so i linked my current number to the Verizon account. I have since canceled my service with Verizon, but i don't want to delete my current Google number because i am being told, once i click on delete, that i have to wait 90 days to get a new one. I would also prefer to not get a new number, but as long as i can gain full functionality for voice and text, i really don't care.
To make phone calls I use Skype. This works good enough for outgoing calls, but it shows my Skype number on caller ID, and i can't receive calls with it. So these two apps combined allow me to send limited texts, receive texts, make calls, but i don't have a way of receiving calls.
I am already paying more than enough for my twelve gigs of data through sprint every month, and I refuse to pay fifty bucks a month to only be able to receive phone calls, but paying a little more every month for an outside service wouldn't bother me too much. Any help with this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance
Tell Sprint to go have sexual intercourse with itself, and switch to T-Mobile. Unlimited high-speed data, text, and minutes for $80/mo.
Planterz said:
Tell Sprint to go have sexual intercourse with itself, and switch to T-Mobile. Unlimited high-speed data, text, and minutes for $80/mo.
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Wow i wish that i could immigrate to America...
[email protected] said:
I am trying to consolidate all of my calling and texting into one app with one phone number that i can use on any device, I.E. android, windows, and hopefully, IOS in case i need it in the future using only an internet connection. Here is what i have right now, how i use it.
I have a Google voice account with one phone number. The problem with this is that i can't receive or make phone calls, i can only send and receive texts, and limited texts at that. Just to try to increase my text limits, I signed up for a Google business account, but really that just gives me a bunch of extra crap i don't need, I.E. a webpage.
When i first signed up for this account i had Verizon as my carrier so i linked my current number to the Verizon account. I have since canceled my service with Verizon, but i don't want to delete my current Google number because i am being told, once i click on delete, that i have to wait 90 days to get a new one. I would also prefer to not get a new number, but as long as i can gain full functionality for voice and text, i really don't care.
To make phone calls I use Skype. This works good enough for outgoing calls, but it shows my Skype number on caller ID, and i can't receive calls with it. So these two apps combined allow me to send limited texts, receive texts, make calls, but i don't have a way of receiving calls.
I am already paying more than enough for my twelve gigs of data through sprint every month, and I refuse to pay fifty bucks a month to only be able to receive phone calls, but paying a little more every month for an outside service wouldn't bother me too much. Any help with this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance
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i dont know about calling, but google hangouts consoilidates all your sms in one place.
I got the hangouts desktop extension for chrome, and I can make calls from it, and I'm pretty sure i can send texts, but i still cant receive calls. One problem I'm having with it is that when i try to just type in a contact's name, it brings up a bunch of people i don't know instead of at least bringing up my google contacts first. Does anyone know how to fix this. I can't remember where, but I've also read that google is on a path to eliminate google voice, and consolidate everything to hangouts, so this might be future proof as a stable phone solution for at least the life of a cell phone contract.