14 DAY TRIAL // Mobile phone users who are fond of their current number, but would also like to use the Google Voice service, have now the possibility to pair the two, as Google has just announced the availability of mobile phone number porting for its users.
The new features is already available for all existing Google Voice users, the company announced, adding that they aim at making it available for new users too in a matter of weeks.
“One of the most frequent requests we hear from people who use (or want to use) Google Voice is that they’d like to get all of Google Voice’s features without having to give up their long-time phone numbers,” the company notes in a post on Google Mobile Blog.
“Today, we’re excited to announce that Number Porting is available for all existing Google Voice users. This means you can make the mobile number you’ve always used your Google Voice number, so it can ring any phone you want - or even your computer.”
Number Porting is something pretty easy to get started with, as one would simply have to log in to the Google Voice account, then head to the Settings page, and hit the Change / Port button next to the Google Voice number.
Although simple, the action is not free, nor is it instant. According to Google, it plans on charging $20 for porting numbers to Google Voice, but additional charges might apply.
“Porting your number to Google Voice costs $20 and is usually completed within 24 hours. You may incur additional charges, including early termination fees, from your wireless carrier. Contact your carrier to get more details about the charges applicable to you,” the company continues.
Users should also keep in mind that their mobile service plan will be canceled as soon as the phone number gets ported. However, users would still be able to make and receive calls on their handsets, though there are actions they would need to take in this direction.
Additional info on how Number Porting works, as well as details on how to make the process an easy one can be found on the Google Voice Help Center.