Are there any downsides to using Google Voice?

[greydarrah]

I'm contemplating switching over to a Google Voice number and wonder if there are any downsides to it. I've read through a number of threads that talk about 1 or 2 second delays associated with using GrooVe IP. Is the delay only experienced through this app, or do you notice a delay anytime you use Google Voice?

Also, when using Google Voice (straight up...not with GrooVe IP), do you call people using any special Google Voice app, or do you just call them like you regularly would? I'm not concerned with using my regular cell minutes, I just want to centralize my phone number in the event I decide to switch carriers.

Thanks

 

[Xopher]

When you load the Google Voice app, it adds options for calling. You can set your phone to always use the Google Voice number for all calls, not use it, or prompt for each call. There is no lag with voice when using GV for your number.

The lag that GrooveIP had is from converting the call to VOIP and voice going over the internet instead of through cell towers.

 

[greydarrah]

When you load the Google Voice app, it adds options for calling. You can set your phone to always use the Google Voice number for all calls, not use it, or prompt for each call. There is no lag with voice when using GV for your number.

The lag that GrooveIP had is from converting the call to VOIP and voice going over the internet instead of through cell towers.

I'm guessing that you use GV. Any negative issues at all that I might want to consider?

 

[Ry]

I'd also add the limits of messaging.

You can't send MMS messages.
Receiving MMS is kind of wonky.
I don't think you can do group messaging.
Your recipients may be charged for receiving your message unless they have an unlimited plan or are also using Google Voice.
You can't send messages to most shortcodes.

 

[jasonandc]

I'd also add the limits of messaging.
You can't send MMS messages. Receiving MMS is kind of wonky. I don't think you can do group messaging.
Your recipients may be charged for receiving your message unless they have an unlimited plan or are also using Google Voice.
You can't send messages to most shortcodes.

Are there work-arounds for any of that? Can you, at the least, temporarily disable GV so you can send MMS, do group messaging, message shortcodes, etc? If your recipient hadn't maxed their messages for the month, would they still get charged for receiving your SMS?

 

[dprice95]

If I can add a question..
Any issues with caller ID, from either end? Does it show up as the GV number for others, both when you call, and when you text?
MMS is no big deal, I usually just email photos anyways, seems to work better on my current phone.

 

[ibikeiruniswim]

I use my Verizon number for friends and family and my Google voice number for work and my only real complaint is that you can not tell which number an incoming call our text is coming to.

Sent from my Samsung Galaxy S6 that's right 6.

 

[Divya44]

This is just me, but I would rather have my calls encrypted. I'm not sure if Google Voice does that.

 

[Fairclough]

I envy you guys, I wish google voice was free globally.

 

[Ry]

Are there work-arounds for any of that? Can you, at the least, temporarily disable GV so you can send MMS, do group messaging, message shortcodes, etc? If your recipient hadn't maxed their messages for the month, would they still get charged for receiving your SMS?

You can receive MMS, but it'll go to your Gmail as an email attachment.

As EvilMonkey pointed out, the workarounds are basically being aware of when to use and when not to use the Google Voice app.

 

[Chevyracing252]

I can't receive mms to my Google voice number... Message sending fails.

Sent from my SCH-R760 using Android Central Forums

 

[Chevyracing252]

Still no dice for me... I thought this had only been enabled for folks with Sprint...

Sent from my SCH-R760 using Android Central Forums

 

[sdchargers12]

I have been trying to have my GV number show up in other people's caller ID but they say it's showing a random number. I'm using the Google Voice app with tmobile and have it set to always use GV to make calls. Do you know any workarounds so my GV number will show up?