Gloss How-To: Handle Voicemail like a Pro with Google Voice

Posted on June 22, 2010 by Jennifer Latkiewicz

“1 New Voicemail” – ugh…  I absolutely abhor having to listen to voicemails, even if it’s from someone I like or regarding an important matter. Rambling messages that reiterate the point ten times are bad, but those “It’s me, call me back” voicemails are the worst. When it comes to modes of communication, voicemail ranks decidedly last, right behind having a note attached to a brick thrown through my bedroom window. But thankfully, Google has a solution. With Google Voice, voicemails can be conveniently read like email, meaning I won’t have to avoid my voicemail inbox like the Plague any more!

Voicemails like Email
Google Voice sends transcriptions of voicemail messages for you to read, either as a text or email – all without the need for an app! After sign-up, enter your cell number online and use your phone to dial the special code Google Voice pops up to program and verify your cell phone number. Note: each cell phone number can only be assigned to one Google Voice account. The phone call takes literally one second and will hang up automatically.

Customizable features
Once you’re programmed, you’ll be able to access a ton of other cool features, including custom greetings for different callers and integrate your phone address book or Google contacts. You’ll also be able to easily forward messages, playback the actual message in your inbox, immediately return the call or text the caller, and block unwanted callers and send them straight to voicemail.

Keep in mind though – Google is continuing to develop their Google Voice technology every day but don’t be surprised if you receive a totally confusing transcription (especially from those friends who are known mumblers). Just remember to take a second to let Google programmers know if your transcription was helpful or not by marking the checkmark (yes) or ‘X’ (no’) that appears on the bottom right-hand side of every message.

One number to ring all your phones
For those who still use their hometown cell phone number with an out-of-state area code, Google Voice also offers a free, local number that can be programmed to ring all your phones. You’ll also enjoy tons of other free features that you usually have to pay for, including conference calling, call screening and texting. (Yes, Google voice offers FREE texting!) Watch this video to see Google Voice in action.

While an app is unnecessary to enjoy these cool Google Voice features, an app is available for easy access. All platforms are supported – iPhone, Blackberry, Palm , Nokia, Windows and of course, Google Android.

Google Voice is free service but right now, requires an “invite” to start. You can sign up here for an invite or ask any friends who already have Google Voice to send you one of their free 5 invites.  UPDATE: On 7/22/10, Google announced that Google Voice will now be available to all, without the need for an invite!

For those who can’t wait for a Google invite, there are a few apps now offering visual voicemail:
YouMail (free) –  iPhone, Blackberry, Android
Ribbit Mobile (free) – iPhone
PhoneTag (free trial, monthly fee) – all mobile phones