Google Voice.

Finally got my Google Voice account activated today; watch out Skype! Already loving the free features of this new Google creation and was looking forward to adding the Google App to my iPhone but then this letter surfaced from a Google Spokesperson earlier today…

We work hard to bring Google applications to a number of mobile platforms, including the iPhone. Apple did not approve the Google Voice application we submitted six weeks ago to the Apple App Store. We will continue to work to bring our services to iPhone users — for example, by taking advantage of advances in mobile browsers.

Of course, it’s not hard to guess who’s behind the restriction… my good friend AT&T. Google Voice scares the carriers. It allows users to send free SMS messages and get cheap long-distance over Google Voice’s lines.

If you are unfamiliar with Google Voice here are some major features from their site.

One number for all your calls and SMS

* Call screening – Announce and screen callers
* Listen in – Listen before taking a call
* Block calls – Keep unwanted callers at bay
* SMS – Send, receive, and store SMS
* Place calls – Call US numbers for free
* Taking calls – Answer on any of your phones
* Phone routing – Phones ring based on who calls
* Forwarding phones – Add phones and decide which ring

Voicemail as easy as email, with transcripts

* Voicemail transcripts – Read what your voicemail says
* Listen to voicemail – Check online or from your phone
* Notifications – Receive voicemails via email or SMS
* Personalize greeting – Vary greetings by caller
* Share voicemail – Forward or download voicemails

Make sure to get in touch with me via comments on the blog or email for my new number.

Where I Rested: Smithers Guest House, South Lake Tahoe