You use the same Google account credentials not only to access Gmail, but to enjoy other Google features such as Blogger and Picasa. On a laptop or desktop computer, Google integrates its "Voice" software as a plugin embedded within Gmail. On an Apple iPhone, on the other hand, you make Google Voice calls from a downloadable mobile application; this in spite of the fact that you use your same Google account credentials.
Google Voice Gmail Plugin
The most seamless way to use Google Voice from a laptop or desktop computer is via Gmail. Google Voice is the plugin Gmail uses to facilitate free voice and video chat with your Gmail contacts. Alternatively, click the "Call Phones" button to input a phone number, which pops up a Google Chat windows that acts as a virtual phone. As of June 2011, calls from U.S. IP addresses to U.S. cell phones and land lines are free.
Google Voice Dedicated Site
Google Voice also has its own web interface, which allows you not only to make calls, but also to receive them. Furthermore, the Google Voice website is where you adjust your account's settings -- the number a contact sees when you call him using Google Voice, as well as whether or not he's able to leave you voice mail messages. It's also here where you input payment information that enables you to make international and other calls that aren't available free of charge.
Google Voice Mobile Versions
Google Voice supports several mobile devices -- BlackBerry, Android, iPhone, Palm OS, Nokia S60 and Windows phones as of June 2011, according to Google's website. Users of certain supported devices access Google Voice by navigating to Google Google's mobile-optimized website within their device's mobile web browsers, located at m.google.com/voice. For iPhone users, Google has released a dedicated, downloadable "Voice" application, similar to the version available for BlackBerry and Android.
Use Google Voice Mobile on an iPhone
To download the Google Voice app, tap the "App Store" icon and type in "Google Voice." Tap the "Install" button next to the app's name, input your iTunes Store credentials and agree to Apple's Terms of Service. Tap the application icon on the iPhone's "Home" screen, tap in any phone number you wish to call and tap the "Call" button. As an alternative, you can keep the app open and wait for someone else to call you.
Tags: Google Voice, account credentials, BlackBerry Android, calls from, desktop computer