Google Fi and Google Voice: What You Need to Know

Google Fi and Google Voice are two powerful tools that can simplify your communication and mobile experience. Google Fi is a wireless network that offers affordable and seamless coverage across the US, Mexico, and Canada.

You can use Google Fi on a variety of devices, including your smartphone, tablet, or laptop. Google Fi is available on Android devices, but there's no official support for iOS devices.

Google Voice, on the other hand, is a service that provides a dedicated phone number and allows you to make calls, send texts, and access voicemails from a single app. With Google Voice, you can also block unwanted calls and texts, which can be a game-changer for those who get a lot of spam messages.

Readers also liked: Google Fi Emergency Calls Only

If you want to port your Google Voice number to Google Fi, select that option when you sign up for Google Fi. This will initiate the transfer process.

Remember to unlock your Google Voice number before transferring it to Google Fi. This is an important step to ensure the transfer is successful.

Broaden your view: Google Fi Transfer Number to New Phone

The transfer of your Google Voice number to Google Fi typically takes some time. Unfortunately, the exact timeframe is not specified in the provided information.

Some Google Voice numbers can't be transferred to Google Fi, so it's essential to check if your number is eligible for transfer. If you encounter any issues during the transfer process, you can contact a Google Fi expert for assistance.

If you switch from Google Voice to Google Fi, your previous voicemails will remain in Google Voice. You can access these voicemails in the Google Fi app for Android, the Phone app for iOS, or by calling your voicemail.

Some third-party services may not accept phone numbers that originated from Google Voice, even after they've been ported to Google Fi. If you encounter this issue, it's recommended to contact the affected third-party service providers and consider getting a new number with Google Fi.

Related reading: How to Check Google Voice Number

Project Fi was a mobile virtual network operator (MVNO) that allowed users to pay for data, talk, and text on a single plan. It was a simple and affordable option.

One of the main features of Project Fi was its ability to automatically switch between T-Mobile, Sprint, and US Cellular networks for the best coverage. This ensured that users always had a strong signal.

Project Fi plans were based on a pay-as-you-go model, where users paid for the data they used, with a $10 per GB charge for data beyond the initial 6GB. This made it a great option for light data users.

Another feature of Project Fi was its seamless integration with Google Voice, allowing users to make and receive calls and texts on their Google Voice number. This made it easy to keep their personal and work numbers separate.

One of the limitations of Project Fi was its lack of international coverage, although users could add a separate international data plan for an additional fee. This was a drawback for users who traveled frequently.

Project Fi also had a unique approach to phone selection, allowing users to choose from a variety of unlocked phones that were compatible with the service. This gave users more flexibility and control over their device choices.

A different take: Google Fi Coverage Maps

Google Fi is a low-cost wireless service that offers coverage on three major networks: T-Mobile, Sprint, and US Cellular.

To start using Google Fi, you'll need a compatible phone, which includes most Android phones and some iPhones.

You can purchase a Google Fi SIM card online or pick one up at a Google Store or authorized retailer.

Porting your existing number to Google Fi is a relatively straightforward process that can be done online or by contacting Google Fi support.

It typically takes 24 hours for the porting process to complete, but it can take up to 3 business days in some cases.

During this time, you won't be able to use your existing number, so make sure to let your friends and family know about the change.

Once your number has been ported, you can start using Google Voice to make and receive calls, send texts, and access voicemail.

Worth a look: T Mobile Google Fi

Managing your Google Fi and Google Voice accounts is a breeze. With Google Fi, you can easily add or remove lines, making it simple to adjust your plan as your needs change.

You can also manage your Google Fi plan online, where you can view and update your account information, including your phone number and payment details.

One of the most convenient features of Google Fi is the ability to transfer your existing number to Google Voice, allowing you to keep your current number and use it with Google Voice.

Google Voice allows you to set up a separate phone number, which can be used for business or personal calls, and can be managed independently of your Google Fi account.

Intriguing read: Create Your Google Account Google Accounts

To make and receive calls with your Google Voice number on your phone, you'll need to use a workaround. This involves having your Google Voice and Google Fi numbers on two different Google accounts.

To start, ensure you're logged in to the Google Voice app with the Google account that has the Google Voice number. Then, follow these steps to set up the workaround.

Worth a look: Whatsapp Business Not Accepting Google Voice Number

1. Open the Google Voice app Settings.

2. Under Calls, open the Make and receive calls setting.

3. Select Prefer Wi-Fi and mobile data. This is what removes the requirement to link a phone number.

4. Go back to Settings and open the Incoming calls setting.

5. Turn on incoming calls for your phone.

By following these steps, you'll no longer need to link a phone number to make and receive calls with your Google Voice number on your phone.

If this caught your attention, see: How to Open a Word Doc with Google Docs

I got a GV number for my business, but was disappointed to find out that linking a GF number to a GV number is officially unsupported.

This meant I had to use a rather hacky workaround to receive GV calls on my phone, which involved using Hangouts for all GV calls.

Hangouts isn't a great option, especially since it's been left by the wayside and may be on its way out.

But, I recently transferred my GV number to a different account and discovered a workaround for the linking problem built right into the GV app settings.

If this caught your attention, see: Can I Make Calls in Japan Google Fi