You can use Google Voice for conference calling. It's a very simple solution, although there are some important caveats to note.
In this guide, I'll cover how to set up Google Voice conference calling, how much it costs, popular alternatives, and more.
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The Best Conference Calling Services for Reliable Conference Calling
If you want to run a reliable conference call for your business, you need a conference call service. Here are the best options.
- next- Best overall
- RingCentral— The best free video conferences
- go to meeting— Best for transcribing phone calls
- Click on Meeting— Ideal for webinars and presentations
- Enlargement— Best suited for large conference calls
- google meeting(formerly Google Hangouts)- Best for personal use
- Phone.com— Best for small teams
- webex— Best for collaboration
you can read ourFull reviews of each teleconferencing service can be found here.
However, for this guide, I'm going to focus on a great cloud-based phone solution called Google Voice.
Read on as I walk you through setting up Google Voice conference calling for work and personal use.
What are Google Voice Conference Calls?
A conference call is an audio or video call with several participants. You can organize and join conference calls with Google Voice.
People can join the meeting by dialing a number that connects them to a conference bridge. This bridge consists of virtual rooms where multiple people can host or attend meetings.
Google Voice uses Google Hangouts to complete conference calls, although you don't need to have a separate, dedicated conference line in either app to host or join calls. So when you make a conference call with Google Voice, you have a dedicated space in your account that you can access anytime, anywhere to make a conference call.
Now that we've discussed the importance of a conference call, let's take a look at what you need to make calling easy.
Google voice account
If you're one of the few people who doesn't have a Google account, you should have one right now.
Before setting up a conference call, you must sign in to your Google account. Once that's done, you can create a Google Voice number for yourself.
Don't have a Google Voice account? I have you. Just follow the steps below:
- Visit the official Google Voice website. You can also writehttps://voz.google.com/in your browser.
- From there, you can select two options:For personal or business use.
- when you clickFor personal use only, you will see three options: iOS, Android, and Web. Clicking on these options will require you to set up a Google Voice number for your account by selecting any nearby location from the drop-down menu.
- Choose one of the numbers from the list. Now you will need to verify your existing phone number, so click onTo verifyon the next screen.
- Enter your number in the entry field and confirm by entering a six-digit code that you will receive on your phone. The incoming call will be forwarded to the specified number.
- When the verification is complete, clickclaimto allow calls to be forwarded to your phone.
- finally selectfinto complete the entire process.
On the other hand, clickingfor business, you will be redirected to a page with a Gand beganI like.
After clicking the button, you will see three different pricing plans: Basic, Standard, and Premier. Choose the one that best fits your company's needs.
You can login with your Google email address.
Any Device to Make Google Voice Calls
You can use iOS and Android devices for Google Voice conference calls. It could be a cell phone, a computer or a tablet.
A stable internet connection
While not a tool in itself, a reliable internet connection is extremely important for making and receiving calls with Google Voice.
You see, Google Voice itself is cloud-based, which essentially means that all of its functionality remains in the cloud, aka the Internet. Therefore, you still need the Internet to use Google Voice.
I also recommend having a good internet connection to ensure your conference runs smoothly. This applies to all parties to the call, because when one party has a poor connection, it experiences audio and visual delays, which in turn affects the quality of the call.
Google Voice Conference Calling Basics
Now let's dive into the main components of a conference call with Google Voice.
Conference calls and SMS without restrictions
With subscription plans starting at just $10 per user per month, Google Voice is one of the most affordable conference calling solutions you can get your hands on.
If you compare that price to standard cell or landline packages, Google Voice is much cheaper. Plus, you don't have to worry about minute caps or surcharges either! It is included in the basic price.
You can make unlimited free calls to the United States and from the United States to Canada from any country. Unlimited free SMS sending is another benefit available to US citizens.
As mentioned, you'll need to use Google Voice with Google Meets or Google Hangouts, as the service doesn't offer video calls or conference calls as standard features.
Incoming call detection and filtering
You can filter incoming calls via Google Voice, as well as set up filters and rules when sending emails.
The filtering feature can be particularly useful for managing incoming calls more efficiently, which in turn can increase your productivity.
Whether it's an old co-worker you'd rather not talk to, getting unwanted calls from spammers, or just want to block unwanted numbers, Google Voice lets you send your calls to voicemail and even block them completely. If you wish, you can also have a special voicemail message assigned to a specific number.
With call screening, the caller introduces himself before the call is transferred to him. That way, you'll have a better idea of who you're talking to before you pick up the phone.
Effortless compatibility with any device
You get a free Google Voice phone number that gives you unlimited access from any device.
You can use your Google Voice number to make and receive calls from iOS, Android or web apps, so everyone on your team can stay connected from anywhere.
Note that unlike other VoIP telephony providers, you don't get a desktop app for Google Voice. Aside from the mobile apps, everything else is web-based.
strong scalability
Google Voice offers fantastic scalable plans.
For example, the Starter plan is best for teams of up to 10 members, where you're limited to 10 home locations. However, if you upgrade to the Standard plan for $20 per user per month, you get unlimited users and unlimited home locations.
Plus, you get tons of other useful features like ringing groups, eDiscovery for calls, SMS and voicemail recording, and multi-level auto attendants to name a few.
The Premier package, which starts at $30 per month, is best suited for people who work internationally. This plan supports unlimited international locations in addition to the unlimited users and unlimited domestic locations offered in the standard plan.
You can choose the plan that best fits your business needs, no matter how big or small your team is.
5 Tricks for Google Voice Conference Calls
There are some tips and tricks you can use to optimize your Google Voice conference calling experience. While there are many others, here are my top 5:
Make sure everyone knows about the conference call
Conference calls often take longer, so everyone should clear their calendars before joining a call. Because of this, you also need to make sure everyone is aware of the conference call ahead of time.
Plus, attendees know when and what time to call your Google number. If you are on a call, you can press 5 to add each additional call.
You can create a Google Calendar invite by adding Google Voice conference calls as an event before sending invites to your guests. Or, you can send a message or email that you want to make a conference call.
It's your decision.
Customize daily workflows
Google Voice is great for customizing everyday workflows on scheduled conference calls. It has an administrative control center that allows you to customize number assignment, portability, auto presence, call routing and recovery from a single location.
You can assign one of your Google Voice numbers to different users in just a few clicks.
Please note that the platform does not support third-party software outside the Google family. So don't expect integrations with CRM, help desk or other applications.
Link more phone numbers
Google Voice users can use any other phone number to make and receive calls and text messages. You can link up to six different phone numbers, but not numbers that have already been linked to another Google Voice account.
To link a new phone number in Google Voice:
- Open your account and accessIdeas.
- To choosenew linked numberdolinked numberand enter the new phone number you want to link here.
- Google will send a six-digit code to that number. You will receive SMS to a mobile number and calls to a landline number. Enter this code into Google Voice
- beat thoseTo verifyI like.
And that is! You have now linked a new number to Google Voice.
Detect and block spam
No one likes unwanted calls, not me and not you.
However, they have become commonplace as more and more scammers and spammers use spam to get your personal information. Spam not only exposes your team to potential fraud, it also hurts productivity.
Fortunately, you don't have to worry about spam when you make conference calls through Google Voice.
The service uses artificial intelligence to automatically filter out spam calls. You can also view your unwanted calls, SMS and voicemails in another section of the Google Voice application.
Think of it like your Gmail spam folder.
Record calls for future use
Google Voice has a handy call recording feature that works with just one click.
All you have to do is press the number 4 on the dial pad when everyone is on the call. An automatic announcement plays for everyone on the call, explaining that the call is being recorded.
If you want to stop recording, press number 4 again. You can also end the call directly to stop recording.
All call recordings can be retrieved and played back from voicemail tab. This can be useful for future reference, where you can refer back if you forget an important point that was discussed during the conference call.
To use:The call recording feature is available for personal use only and not for business purposes or workspace accounts.
FAQs
How to do a conference call using Google Voice? ›
- From your phone, dial the first number. When the call is answered, press the Flash button on your phone to place the caller on hold.
- Wait for a dial tone, and then dial the second number. When the second call is answered, press the Flash button on your phone again to connect all three callers.
If you're using a work or school account and hear the message, "Could not complete your call," contact your Voice administrator. This message could mean you no longer have a Voice license and your administrator needs to assign you a license.
Can someone find out your real number from Google Voice? ›Are Google Voice Numbers Traceable? Your Google Voice number isn't publicly listed. As the number is linked to an online account and not any landline number, the number doesn't automatically appear in any phone books or online websites that list phone numbers.
Can Google Assistant answer my phone calls? ›Your Google Assistant answers the call and asks who's calling and why. If the Assistant determines the call is a robocall or spam call, your phone hangs up.
Can Google Voice call multiple numbers? ›Google Voice only offers basic calling, text messaging, and voicemail features, while Google Fiber Phone is intended to be a home phone service and does not offer collaboration, call recording, or other key business features. Additionally, only the primary phone number can make outbound voice calls and texts.
What does it mean when you call and it says call Cannot be completed call has been forwarded to many times? ›The error you're describing doesn't mean too many numbers have been forwarded, it actually means that your number is attempting to forward incoming calls to five or more other numbers and the system can't handle the routing.
Why I am not able to call anyone? ›Check Your Network Connection
If you aren't connected to the cellular network, you won't be able to make calls. You can check your network coverage at the top of your screen. If you're out of reception, you may be in a dead spot or there may be a network outage, so try moving around a bit.
It means that the mobile service you've called has been set up to only accept calls from a limited subset of incoming services. It might only accept calls from certain mobile networks, or only certain numbers, or only at certain times.
Why would someone use Google Voice? ›Your Google Voice phone number helps you make and receive calls and send and get text messages. You can hide your caller ID when you make calls on Google Voice. You can also change the caller ID for incoming calls. If you ever lose access to Google Voice, your phone number helps with account recovery.
How do I find out who is behind a Google Voice number? ›No. Google does not disclose any information about Google Voice numbers. If someone with the number is threatening you, then you can contact local law enforcement who may be able to obtain information from Google by following the proper procedure.
Does * 67 still work? ›
Based on our tests in April of 2022, this still works. If you dial *67 then the recipient's full ten-digit phone number, your call will ring through. The recipient's caller ID will say 'Unknown Caller' or something similar.
How does Google Voice work with cell phones? ›Google Voice converts your voice into a digital signal that travels over the internet. It is a VoIP service with which you can make calls directly from a computer. If you are wondering how Google voice works on Android, you can simply enable it from the settings of the Google app.
How do I ask Google Assistant to answer calls? ›Incoming calls will show up as notifications on your Android phone, then you just need to say “hey Google, answer call” (or something along those lines) to pick up without lifting a finger. You can also use the “reject call” command if it's someone you don't want to speak to right now.
How do I turn on Google Assistant answering calls? ›- On your Android phone or tablet, go to Assistant settings, or open the Google Assistant app. and say, “Assistant settings.”
- Under "Popular settings," tap Voice Match.
- Turn on Hey Google. If you don't find Hey Google, turn on Google Assistant.
- At a specified time, ask each conference call participant to call your Google Voice Number.
- As each member calls in, simply answer the calls and Press 5 to add them to the discussion.
- That's it! Don't forget you have a four-caller max (including you.)
Anyone with a Google Account can create a video meeting, invite up to 100 participants, and meet for up to 60 minutes per meeting at no cost.
Can you have a 3 way call on Google Voice? ›The Limitations of Google Voice
A group conference call with Google Voice is limited to 10 people on the call at once (or 25 with a paid account). Unlike full-fledged conference tools, Google Voice doesn't have tools to manage the conference call and its participants.
While some services may require you to link a paid phone line, there's no cost to use Google Voice itself.
Is Google Voice number permanent? ›Your Google Voice phone number remains active as long as you make at least one call every six months. However, if you do not use it for more than six months, Google might reassign the number to anyone claiming it.
How many linked numbers can you have on Google Voice? ›Tips: You can link up to 6 numbers. You can't link a number that's already linked to a Google Voice number. Calls to your Google Voice number also ring on your linked number.
How do you know if someone has diverted your calls? ›
First of all, if you see a persistent notification on your Android notification shade saying “Forwarding all calls” or something related, that means you or someone has activated call divert on your phone.
How do you know if someone rejected your call? ›“If it rings only one or two times and goes to voicemail then your call is probably declined (the recipient has manually clicked the “decline” button).”
What is * 73 on your phone? ›Call forwarding is disabled by dialing *73. This feature requires a subscription from the telephone company. Also available in some areas is Remote Access to call forwarding, which permit the control over call forwarding from telephones other than the subscriber's telephone.
Why are my calls failing when I call one person? ›A call failed message could be a problem with your cellular provider or your iPhone. You should toggle Airplane mode, restart your phone, and reset your SIM card. You can also reset your iPhone's network settings, but that will erase passwords.
Why are all my outgoing calls failing? ›This call failure issue can be caused from different factors like poor network reception, due to call barring settings or you mistakenly turned off your sim card from settings.
What does it say when you try to call a number that has you blocked? ›When you call a number that has blocked yours, you may hear one or half a ring or no rings at all and then the call will go to voicemail. If it goes straight to voicemail, their phone may also be off or out of range, or they may have temporarily turned on Do Not Disturb mode to work, drive, or sleep, however.
What do you hear when you call and your number is blocked? ›It's a normal call when you call a person and hear the usual number of rings before getting voicemail. But if the person has blocked you, here's the big indicator. You only hear a single ring before being diverted to voicemail.
What do those get when they try to call but are blocked? ›A single ring sends you to voicemail
If you call a phone and hear the normal number of rings before getting sent to voicemail, then it's a normal call. If you're blocked, you would only hear a single ring before being diverted to voicemail.
- Texting is for US customers only. ...
- Works only with other Google apps. ...
- Costs more than other VoIP providers. ...
- Caps users. ...
- Collaboration is limited. ...
- Getting the right context takes extra time. ...
- No toll-free numbers. ...
- No auto-replies.
Nearly all voice-activated technology uses microphones that listen for “wake words.” That means they are, technically, always listening.
Can I Facetime with Google Voice? ›
You can't. However, you can send and receive SMS/MMS directly from your GV number.
Do Google Voice numbers get reassigned? ›After you assign licenses to users, you can assign them each a Google Voice number or let users choose their Voice number. Each Voice number can only be assigned once and each user can only be assigned one number at a time. It can take up to 48 hours for Voice numbers to become active.
What can someone do with your Google Voice number? ›- Commit crimes that can be traced back to you. ...
- Scam your friends and family using your phone number. ...
- Open new accounts in your name. ...
- Take over your online accounts using verification codes. ...
- Harvest more sensitive information to steal your identity.
- Answer the phone or check the caller ID to see if it's a call you want to trace. ...
- After you have hung up, or after the call has stopped ringing, pick up the phone again and listen for a dial tone.
- Dial *57.
- You will receive a recorded message with additional instructions for you to follow.
*82 - Unblocks Caller ID on one outbound call
This star code will unblock your caller ID for a single outgoing call if you have previously used *61 to block caller ID for all outbound calls.
Activate Call Trace
Pick up the phone and press *57 (touch tone) or 1157 (rotary). You'll hear a confirmation tone and message will be heard If the trace is successful. You must keep a written log of the date and time of harassing calls to retrieve Call Trace information.
If you don't want to withhold your number permanently, only before making a particular call, it's very straight forward to do. Simply type the numbers 141 before the phone number you plan to dial. This is the same system used on landlines but it also works on mobiles.
Does Google Voice use WIFI or Cell? ›Make calls over Wi-Fi
Important: If you start a call from the phone app on your device instead of the Voice app, the call uses minutes from your mobile phone plan. To use Wi-Fi for a call, start the call from the Voice app. Learn how to make a call with Google Voice.
Google Fiber Phone is just like a typical home phone, except your phone service is delivered over the Internet, and it's powered by Google Voice. Use your current home phone number, choose a new one, or use your existing Google Voice number.
Who should hang up first at the end of a call? ›If there is nothing else, then thank them for calling and wish them a pleasant rest of the day. Use their names when addressing them too, it makes the entire experience more personalized. Finally, it's also proper phone etiquette to make sure that the customer hangs up the phone first!
How do I call Google Assistant without unlocking my phone? ›
On your Android phone or tablet, say "Hey Google, open Assistant settings." Or, go to Assistant settings. Under "All settings," tap Lock screen. Turn on Also get personal results when you activate your Assistant without saying “Hey Google,” like tapping your screen. Lock your phone.
What commands can Google Assistant do? ›Google Assistant can now integrate with Android Messages, Hangouts, Messenger, SMS, Telegram, WhatsApp and Viber. Just tell it to "Read back replies." Place a call: "OK, Google, call Mom," or, "OK, Google, call [contact name]," or, "OK, Google, call the nearest coffee shop." Hang up: "OK, Google, hang up."
Can Google Assistant answer phone calls for me? ›Your Google Assistant answers the call and asks who's calling and why. If the Assistant determines the call is a robocall or spam call, your phone hangs up.
Can you do group chat on Google Voice? ›You can start group chats with up to 7 people in them. You simply add each user you'd like to be in the chat, before sending the first message. You can not add/change/delete people from a group chat.
How do you do 3 way calling? ›- Call the first phone number and wait for the person to answer.
- Tap Add call.
- Call the second person. Note: The original call will be put on hold.
- Tap Merge to begin your 3-way call.
Google Meet works on any device. Join a meeting from your desktop/laptop, Android, or iPhone/iPad. If you're working from home, you can also join a meeting from Google Nest Hub Max. For organizations that need conference room support, Google Meet hardware offers affordable, high-quality options for purchase.
Does free conference call have a time limit? ›...
Feature.
| Feature | (Basic Free) | |
|---|---|---|
| Meeting time limit | No limits on group meetings | 40 minutes limited on group meetings |
| User reports | Yes | No user reports |
After 60 minutes, Google Meet will disconnect the call automatically. One-on-one video calls can go up to 24 hours. However, the host can upgrade their Google account or subscribe to the paid version of Google Meet to continue the call.
What is the difference between Google Groups and Google Chat? ›You can use spaces or group conversations in Google Chat to communicate with one or more people. Spaces: A central place where people can share files, assign tasks, and stay connected. Group conversations: Chat directly with a group. For example, use group conversations to have a quick discussion after a meeting.
How many people can be in a Google Chat group? ›Up to 150 chat participants in a group conversation. Up to 8,000 participants in a space. Search within Chat app and at chat.google.com includes a filter by sender and attachment. You can only search 1:1 history in Gmail, not group message or space history.
What is the difference between Google Chat and Google Voice? ›
Google Talk is an instant messaging client that you can install on your computer or smartphones and it allows you to chat with online friends and even call them via VoIP. On the other hand, Google Voice is a telecommunications service that allows the user to make phone calls to ordinary telephones.
How many calls can be connected in a conference call? ›Conference calling on Android supports up to five callers at once.
Is 3 Way calling the same as conference call? ›A three-way call, or conference call, is when three or more people are in a phone conversation simultaneously.
How do you make a conference call more than 5? ›- Call the first person for your conference.
- Tap the “add call” button.
- Add more guests.
- Tap the “merge” button.
- Repeat the above steps to add more callers.
In a web browser, go to the Meet homepage. Click Start a new meeting. Click Always allow https://meet.google.com to access your camera and microphone. Click Done.
Does Google Meet allow anyone to join? ›- Next to the name, click Admit or Deny entry to admit or deny participants one at a time.
- Click Admit all or Deny all to admit or deny all participants at the same time.
...
| Google Voice | Skype | |
| Price | Starts at $10/user/month | Starts at $3.59/user/month |
| Mobile App | Yes | Yes |
| Voicemail | Yes | Yes |
| Voicemail Transcription | Yes | No |