Google Voice - existing number vs. Google Voice number

[pmas]

Make sure you get the Google Number first. If you say you want to just use your existing number you lose the option for a google number. You can get a GV and do your current number at the same time. If you don't like your GV number you can change it later for a 10$ dollar one time charge from google.

Not true. That used to be the case, but no longer. I use my existing number so I can have the custom voice messages and transcriptions etc. BUT google sent me an email a few minutes after I signed up (about 3 weeks ago) telling me I can change my account to a GV number at any time. Further, when I log into my GV account, there is an option right there on the page to click on for changing the account to a GV number.

[MNTNBKR]

Make sure you get the Google Number first. If you say you want to just use your existing number you lose the option for a google number. You can get a GV and do your current number at the same time. If you don't like your GV number you can change it later for a 10$ dollar one time charge from google.

Not true. That used to be the case, but no longer. I use my existing number so I can have the custom voice messages and transcriptions etc. BUT google sent me an email a few minutes after I signed up (about 3 weeks ago) telling me I can change my account to a GV number at any time. Further, when I log into my GV account, there is an option right there on the page to click on for changing the account to a GV number.

Well, that is certainly nice of them. Thanks for the heads up. I suppose that those of us who already have the GV number set up won't see that message when we log into our accounts. Good information to know and pass on.

[pmas]

Make sure you get the Google Number first. If you say you want to just use your existing number you lose the option for a google number. You can get a GV and do your current number at the same time. If you don't like your GV number you can change it later for a 10$ dollar one time charge from google.

Not true. That used to be the case, but no longer. I use my existing number so I can have the custom voice messages and transcriptions etc. BUT google sent me an email a few minutes after I signed up (about 3 weeks ago) telling me I can change my account to a GV number at any time. Further, when I log into my GV account, there is an option right there on the page to click on for changing the account to a GV number.

Well, that is certainly nice of them. Thanks for the heads up. I suppose that those of us who already have the GV number set up won't see that message when we log into our accounts. Good information to know and pass on.

Here's what I have when I log in and go to phones

[cynthialeas]

I don't see why it's a tough choice. If you get the GV number you don't necessarily have to use it, but if you don't get the GV number you CAN'T use it. In short, signing up with a GV number allows you access to every option that they have available, whether you use it or not is up to you.

I personally signed up a loooong time ago for GV and got a GV number. I now have the option to use that number if I want to, but I don't...(yet). I do however use GV for my voicemail because it has free VVM.

I agree with you but..... the entire process seems overwhelming when given the choice. Eveyone should get a GV # from the get go and no choice.

The only choice should be is weather to use it or not. And you dont have to use it if you dont want to but like you state its great to have the choice.

I completely agree. I think Google is purposely making it seem like an "all or nothing" kinda situation so that they don't have to give out as many phone numbers.

I agree that Google may be intentionally making the process overwhelming so that not more people will be flooding their services. Especially if they are still on a trial period. But it is a great service to have a flexible and manageable voice mail number them. It is worth the try.

[Backnblack]

Make sure you get the Google Number first. If you say you want to just use your existing number you lose the option for a google number.

In Google Voice, Goto Settings, Phone Tab..... Get A Google Number