4 Awesome Features of Google Voice

Google's products tend to be trendsetters, so when Google announced its "Voice" service, which is basically a VOIP phone service, many users clamored to be part of the initial trials. I've used Google Voice for a few weeks, and it's pretty decent. Here's a look at some of the best features of the service.

1. Dedicated Number - The first time you log into Google Voice, you'll be prompted to choose a number to use for the service. This number can be dialed and used as a normal Voip phone number, so you don't have to go computer-to-computer to get service. Google Voice Apps on mobile devices (besides the iPhone, at least for now) can even dial out on the number, though it's worth noting that dialing and receiving calls on your Google voice number uses up the minutes on your cell phone just like a normal call.

2. Mark Callers as Spam - So, let's say that your Google Voice number gets a call from a telemarketer. You hang up, right? Of course. But then you can mark the call as spam, which blocks the number quickly and easily, stopping you from ever getting a call from that phone number again. You can also go back in the future, if, for instance, you decide that you might actually want drugs from a Canadian pharmacy, and unblock the number. Sure, normal phones have this functionality, but you usually have to call through to your phone company or deal with archaic cell phone controls.

3. Different Voicemail Greetings For Different Callers - You know how you recorded a great voicemail greeting of your ability to burp the Declaration of Independency, but you can't use it because you just applied for, like, six jobs at K-Mart? Google Voice allows you to set up separate voicemail greetings for certain friends, groups of friends, or for certain numbers, so you can record creepy voicemail intros to freak out your mother or a voicemail greeting for the K-Mart managers thanking them for calling you back. It's the perfect blend of absolutely creepy and awesome.

4. Voicemail Transcripts - Google Voice also has enable voicemail transcripts, which emails you written copies of every voicemail that you receive, allowing you read them in mixed company without leaving the room with your phone pressed to your ear like a jerk. It's a great way to find out that you got the K-Mart cashier job without leaving the movie theater.

What are your favorite features of Google Voice? Post in our comments section below.