Google Gains a Louder Voice

Traditionally, mobile communications have been tightly controlled by carriers and handset suppliers. Gradually, mobile networks have been becoming more open, and Google added a feature to its Google Voice offering, so users can more easily run it on mobile networks.Up to now, customers were required to dump their existing mobile numbers in order to use Google Voice. The service has been enhanced , so customers can keep their existing phones numbers and use Google Voice for items, such as voice mail. The service also features a Find Me Follow Me function where Google Voice number rings various phone numbers so users miss fewer incoming calls.

Google Voice has been a controversial application. AT&T and Apple have been trying to thwart its use among their customers. These companies fear that Google will use the application as a Trojan Horse eventually convincing customers to use its products rather than their own. This new application skirts the carriers barrier and enables iPhone users to run Google Voice.

Traditionally, the cell phone market has been tightly controlled, and it has been difficult for users to mix and match items and services from different vendors. Google is trying to break down some of those walls. The latest announcement continues on this trend. Eventually, small and medium businesses will find that it easier to mix and match different mobile components.