Wow, now that took time!

Google Voice has been in private beta for quite some time with those already in on it raving about it’s abilities.  Now, FINALLY, they are extending invitations to those who have been signed up for so long.  They are currently working their way through the list so be patient (Brett)!  If you’re not familiar with Google Voice or its predecessor, GrandCentral, check out this video:

I had signed up for a GrandCentral number way back before Google took over so I’ve been part of the private beta.

I am currently using my Google Voice number as my home number and I’m loving it!  I did a review on it (and am testing the transcription service so drop me a line) and I even found a way to save on my cell phone bill by using it.  I even figured out how to send voicemails to multiple email addresses (now it seems Google allows this in settings anyhow)!

One annoyance I had with GrandCentral, back in the day, was the lack of flexibility of the option to “choose to not have your GrandCentral number ring your home during the day.” Several things bugged me.  First, the option was only available for the number labeled “home.”  What if I carry my cell phone to work and want my calls to only go home and not the cell?  Then there was the rigidness of the times allowed.  I don’t remember the exact times but you only had like one choice (ie. block calls 9:00AM-5:00PM/working hours).  I’m happy to announce that Google has changed this!  You can now have a “ring schedule” for each phone!

As I said, the folks at Google are working their way through the invite list.

If you head to voice.google.com, there is a “get an invite” link to get on the list, but I haven’t heard any word about how long it will take to get an invite so patience is key!

Questions!

• Do you have a Google Voice number yet?
• What do you think of the idea of it?
• How do you like the service?
• What are some interesting ways you can use the service (ie. saving money on your cell phone)?
• Why haven’t you checked out my review and dropped me a line yet?
• What concerns do you have about a service like this?