Google Voice, Now With Your Existing Phone Number

Google’s offering a stripped-down Google Voice feature set for people who want to use the call management service but don’t want to let go of their existing cell phone numbers. Previously, the problem with Google Voice — or at least the reason I’ve barely touched it since getting my invite months ago — is that people have to call your new number to use features like call blocking, screening and the “listen-in” functionality that lets you hear voicemails as they’re being left for you. Those features are still off limits if you want to keep using your old cell phone number, but Google has now added a way to use at least some the things Google Voice has to offer.

The features for existing phone numbers pertain entirely to voicemail, storing them online and transcribing them so you can search by text. Voicemails are also displayed in a list, so if you don’t have an iPhone or other phone that does visual voicemail, you’ll still be able to listen in any order you choose. Other features include customized greetings for different people or groups, voicemail via e-mail or SMS and the ability to share messages by forwarding or embedding them. If you have Google Voice, you’ll have to go to “Settings,” then click “Activate Google voicemail on this phone” next to the cell phone you want to use. [via Google]