Setting up a Google Voice account provides users with an additional phone number for calling and texting, requiring just a regular phone number to begin the process.
Before you start: You will need a Google account and a United States-based phone number.
Warning: Ensure that you are prepared to use your existing US-based phone number during the setup process, as it is required for verification.
How to set up a Google Voice account
Follow these steps to successfully create your Google Voice account on various devices.
Setting up on a computer
- Go to the Google Voice website. This opens the Google Voice sign-up site.
- Click Sign in. It’s at the top-right corner of the page. If you’re not already signed in to your Google account, follow the on-screen instructions to do so now.
- Click Continue. Clicking Continue confirms that you agree to Google’s terms.
- Enter a city or area code. This displays available phone numbers in that location.
- Click Select next to a phone number to claim it. Once you’ve claimed your number, you’ll see a confirmation that says “You’ve selected (phone number).”
- Click Verify. A pop-up will appear, requesting your US-based phone number.
- Enter your phone number and click Send code. A verification code will be sent to you via text message.
- If you prefer to verify your phone number via a telephone call, click verify by phone, and then follow the on-screen instructions.
- Enter the verification code and click Verify. A confirmation message will appear, letting you know that incoming phone calls to your Google Voice number will be routed to your existing phone number.
- Click Finish. This completes the sign-up process and redirects you to a confirmation page with your new phone number on it.
Setting up on an iPhone
- Download Google Voice from the App Store. If you haven’t already installed the app, here’s how to get it now:
- Open the App Store.
- Tap Search at the bottom-right corner.
- Tap the gray search bar at the top of the screen.
- Type Google Voice and tap the Search key.
- Tap GET next to “Google Voice.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to install the app.
- Open Google Voice. You should find it on one of your home screens.
- Tap Sign in and sign in to your Google account.
- Tap Accept. This confirms that you understand the terms of using Google Voice.
- Tap Search. It’s at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
- Enter a city or area code. This displays available phone numbers in that location.
- Tap Select next to the phone number you want to use. A confirmation message will appear.
- Tap Next. Now that you’ve selected a phone number, you’ll have to verify your existing number.
- Enter your existing phone number and tap Send code. This sends a confirmation code to the phone number you entered.
- Enter the verification code and tap Verify. A confirmation message will appear.
- Tap Claim to confirm. Your new Google Voice phone number is now set up.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Setting up on an Android
- Install Google Voice from the Play Store. If you haven’t already installed the app, here’s how to get it now:
- Open the Play Store.
- Type Google Voice into the search bar and press Enter.
- Tap INSTALL next to “Google Voice.”
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the installation.
- Open Google Voice. Tap the app icon in the app drawer or home screen.
- Sign in to your Google account. If you have multiple accounts, select the one you want to use with Google Voice.
- Tap Continue. This confirms that you understand the terms of using Google Voice.
- Tap Search. It’s at the bottom-right corner of the screen.
- Enter a city or area code. This displays available phone numbers in that location.
- Tap Select next to the phone number you want to use. Instructions for verifying your new phone number will appear.
- Verify your current US-based phone number. Enter that phone number now, and follow the on-screen instructions to verify your account.
- Follow the on-screen instructions to complete the setup.
Pro tip: After setting up your Google Voice account, explore its features like voicemail settings and free calling within the US for a seamless communication experience.
Successfully setting up your Google Voice account opens opportunities for enhanced communication without the need for a second physical line. With Google Voice, you can make calls and send texts seamlessly, integrating this feature within your daily routine. Understanding how to manage your Google Voice account helps to maximize its benefits, ensuring you stay connected in a straightforward manner. Explore the various features available to streamline your communication needs and enjoy the convenience of your new phone number.
