[Q] Got a new i5800 and questions... - Galaxy Spica General

Hi,
This is my first posting here and this forum looks promising. I just bought Samsung i5800 from Amazon and the phone looks beautiful and has lot of nice features. I'm on T-Mobile network with no data plan. I have couple of questions on the general phone usage, installing VOIP softphone software and other issues. I apologize if my questions were already asked and answered. I searched the forum but couldn't find specific answers to my questions.
1. Firstly, the phone is running little bit sluggish. Opening and closing apps seems to be tad slow. I checked up the Manage Services and killed some of them but the others I felt were important and left it out. There wasn't a lot of services running though. How to fix this issue?
2. The phone is running on Android 2.1. Do you guys know if there is a official Android 2.2 Froyo update from Samsung for this phone? If not, where do I get 2.2 ROM. Will installing 2.2 make the phone run faster?
3. On the VOIP softphone front, I set up a new sipgate account and also a Google Voice account. I installed the free csipsimple opensource software from Android market and configured it. I don't have a independent dialer to go thru csipsimple. When I use the regular phone dialer from the phone to call somebody, csipsimple is popping up and asking me if I want to go thru it or use the Mobile itself and I choose csipsimple and it works extremely well. I hope it is using my Wifi network. I checked my T-Mobile account and there was no activity in the call log for the calls I made thru csipsimple. Now, here is the problem. When I call somebody, the other party receives the call as "Unknown". How to fix this issue? Should they be seeing my google voice number? The other big issue is I'm not getting any incoming calls thru VOIP. As I had mentioned earlier, I don't have GV dialer. Do I have to buy GV Dialer ($1.99) to make the incoming calls work? All I need is to have free incoming and outgoing calls when I'm on Wifi network. Can somebody please help me on this?
Thanks.
touchsc

Related

Google voice only?

I shut my service off yesterday as I will be in Japan for a few months and the international roaming is crazy! Any options to make it work with Google voice only over Wifi? I tried calling and it says no service available.
Also, I'm in Japan, are there any other options like configuring it to work with Softbank or anything like that? Thanks.
Have you tried to download and use the skype app over wifi? It may cost you a little to call but would be better than the roaming fees.
jmd1981 said:
I shut my service off yesterday as I will be in Japan for a few months and the international roaming is crazy! Any options to make it work with Google voice only over Wifi? I tried calling and it says no service available.
Also, I'm in Japan, are there any other options like configuring it to work with Softbank or anything like that? Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Google Voice on Android does not currently support VOIP from the handset to the server. That feature is only available through the Gmail desktop browser page on an operating system that is supported by the Gtalk voice and video chat plugin. Another way to get end-to-end VOIP with Google Voice is using Gizmo5, if you had signed up for that service before Google bought it out. That only lets you do incoming calls though.
Also, I'm in Japan, are there any other options like configuring it to work with Softbank or anything like that? Thanks.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
If you have a temp visa or better yet a coworker or friend there you could probably get month-to-month service there. That would be the best bet, but it's generally one of the more difficult countries for visitors to get a sim card in. The airport might have some rental services, but iirc they rented you the whole phone (by the day no less) and it's fairly expensive compared to regular service.
Also it goes without saying that if you want to use a Softbank sim you will need to subsidy unlock (also known as sim unlock) the phone.
Edit: it is rumored that the WiFi calling feature that T-mo is bringing to the G2 and other Android devices will allow a connection and minutes usage internationally. Personally I think this is unlikely (for a few reasons, some of which are legal/regulatory) but it would be pretty nice. Of course this would seriously short circuit the way GV for Android works. You would not be able to make outbound calls with GV in the caller ID.
If you need an unlock code for that phone. to use a japan sim. Let me know via PM
You could always install skype and set your outgoing caller id to your google voice number. Then sign up for a number at sipgate.com and add your new number to google voice. Once that's activated, download and install Fring or sipdroid and add your sipgate information. Use skype to making outgoing, take incoming calls with fring or sipdroid. Alternatively, if you don't want to pay for unlimited skype-out, you can try one of the many google voice dialer apps out there. They basically initiate calls using the google voice web interface, which you can actually do via your browser if none of the apps work out.
Edit.
Or just buy a skype number and unlimited skype out then setup skype caller id and forward your GV calls to your skype #
I'm not sure if any devs will see this here, so I will probably post in the G1 dev forum or the general android forum as well, but I wanted to do a search first and this is the only similar thread I have found. Anyway...
As some of you know, you can now place FREE calls to anywhere in the US or Canada using GMail and the "voice and video chat plugin". You can also receive calls from within GMail if you have a GoogleVoice account and you set it up to forward GoogleVoice calls to "Google Chat" as well as your phone(s).
This is awesome! I can now answer calls from GMail instead of my phone. I wish the desktop GoogleTalk app did that so I wouldn't have to always keep a webbrowser page open to GMail, but that is not what this post is about...
I got to thinking: if GMail can place and receive free phone calls, why can't I do that on my phone (or any device with internet)? I downloaded every available webbrowser for Android and tried to surf to GMail, but none of them even loaded the page (???), much less the plugin.
While searching for any possible solution, I learned that the required "voice and video chat plugin" is available for Linux. This fact makes me almost positive that it is somehow possible for someone to develop an Android app that loads that plugin, logs in to GMail (spoofing a desktop browser), and displays the Pop-out dial pad capable of placing and receiving free calls!
Is anyone up to the challenge? This is huge people! FREE phone where ever there is internet. I hope someone can make this happen.
There is a way of doing this... you ARE talking about calling and using your 3g/4g network, right?
Sent from my SGH-T959 using XDA App
Um... ok, what is the way of doing it?
I am talking about using the Google "voice and video chat plugin" along with the dialer in GMail to make/receive free calls anywhere with internet (WiFi/3G/4G, without using minutes) just like you can already do if you have a Windows/Mac/Linux webbrowser, but through an Android device.
Don't you have WiFi Calling?
AndroidBoston said:
Don't you have WiFi Calling?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Do you not realize the WiFi calling app still relies on the TMO network?
rpmccormick said:
Um... ok, what is the way of doing it?
I am talking about using the Google "voice and video chat plugin" along with the dialer in GMail to make/receive free calls anywhere with internet (WiFi/3G/4G, without using minutes) just like you can already do if you have a Windows/Mac/Linux webbrowser, but through an Android device.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No, there is no equivalent of the gmail chat plugin. You're limited to using a sip client and forwarding your GV to that number
I'm pretty sure you can't even roam in Japan anymore. Unless this phone has the UMTS frequencies for 1900, you wont get anything. Recently, Softbank shut off GSM/2G service.

Google Voice and Skype Working on Tab

So here is what I did... I now have a working VOIP phone service via my T-Mobile Tab..
-- Get the hacked Skype App (allows 3G calling) http://www.megaupload.com/?d=156KWZVH
-- Get Google Voice from Market
-- Go to skype.com and setup an account
-- Order a Skype Internet Number (it's $30 for a year right now -- normally $60)
-- Add a Skype calling plan ( I went with $2.99 a month for unlimited calling)
-- Set Skype to display your Google Voice Number (Caller ID Settings)
-- Set Google Voice to forward all calls to your Skype number
-- Go into Google Voice App and set it up to use your Skype number for voicemail notifications.
It works and it works pretty darn well...
Pros:
--Incoming and outgoing voice capabilities
--Unlimited calling in the US and Canada for $2.99 a month
--With 3G data plan you always have phone functions to dial out and receive
--Use Google Voice for SMS messages and you only have the one number.
Cons:
--If you don't want to use the Google Voice number for SMS then you will have 2 numbers. The one that came on your Tab that is used for SMS/MMS and a number for phone usage.
--Price for this to work per year amounts to $66 ($30 for the Skype number and $36 for the unlimited plan) Not really a con if you consider this is the total cost for a year of unlimited cell (VOIP) calls from you Tab
--If you use Google Voice for SMS it does not do MMS
Here is how it works...
When someone calls your Google Voice number it forwards it to the Skype number and the Tab rings...
When you call someone it displays your Google Voice number...
COOL....
Thanks for telling step-by-step to this workaround... couple of more cons, for me anyway.
1) a big con for me is that it means I can't port my existing cell no. to my new Tab... and since I'm a consultant and it's been my phone no. for a long time... that's kind of a drag.
2) Also, I've heard Skype call quality is sketchy at times?
3) No 911 calling via Skype I beleive?
thoughts pls?
ps... I suppose if I just kept my Sprint plan and went to phone only and kept my Pre I could just call forward my cell no. to Google voice?
I ported my previous cell number to my Tab...
Skype can be sketchy if on a slow or weak 3G or Wifi connection... I have had no problems with it yet though...
Yes, no 911 calling.... But you can program your local police / fire / EMS non emergency dispatch center number as a contact... That's what I did... Granted it's not as fast to get answered as 911, but it is a suggestion...
I don't see why you could not forward the previous cell # to GV then have it forwarded to Skype. Then set the Caller ID in Skype to display your previous cell number... Should work...
I might give this a try and see how I like.... since the phone flashing seems to be stuck at 2G plus a few other problems at this point....
Thanks much for the instructions...!
I decided to do this route as opposed to flashing the other way... Flashing the Euro ROM does still have issues and even once they are worked out, I can't see a US carrier adding voice to the Tab... Even with flashing the Euro ROM you will still need another SIM card to use that has voice functions enabled on it (hence, a different number like this process requires)...
Many people already have my GV number so this was also an easy way to get phone function without much effort... And at $66 a year for unlimited voice, I don't see a carrier plan even coming close to that...
Please Elaborate
@raqball
How does it work? Is it smooth?
My wife has a Skype account, does it have to be the unlimited calls or do you use the free calls from skype?
I really would love to see a YouTube vid please, or just a demo, I need to feel confident to give back the MyTouch 4G for this
Cause if it's like that, I am going to go and give back the MyTouch and get the tab for the Both of us tomorrow!
xexes said:
Thanks for telling step-by-step to this workaround... couple of more cons, for me anyway.
1) a big con for me is that it means I can't port my existing cell no. to my new Tab... and since I'm a consultant and it's been my phone no. for a long time... that's kind of a drag.
2) Also, I've heard Skype call quality is sketchy at times?
3) No 911 calling via Skype I beleive?
thoughts pls?
ps... I suppose if I just kept my Sprint plan and went to phone only and kept my Pre I could just call forward my cell no. to Google voice?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I did this for months on my old Milestone (Droid) due to me being in Canada and everyone I knew being back in the US (and all calls to the US are int'l long distance via cell) until I found a way to make GV work here in Canada via normal phone lines.
Yes, call quality via Skype is sketchy at times, depending on connection quality, and there's ALWAYS lag.
Call forwarding works fine.
I wouldn't sweat 911, but then again I have almost no respect for that service anyway.
How stable has this been running for the ones using it?
Sent From The Moon... With a HTC Glacier
Any way to do this without Skype? Can't pay for everything :/ Will GV just work?
You'll need some sort of VOIP to make it work, but it doesn't have to be Skype.
Keep in mind, Google Voice is NOT a VOIP service, it's a fancy call forwarding and voicemail service that also lets you pick a free US phone number for life.
And folks, there's always Sipdroid and a SIP number service (there's quite a few besides Gizmo)
http://gurnted.wordpress.com/guides/updated-guide-from-xda/
Matt4542 said:
Any way to do this without Skype? Can't pay for everything :/ Will GV just work?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
No problems here. I am using the hacked Skype app that allows 3g calling. Working great for me so far.
Sent from Samsung Tab using XDA App
raqball said:
No problems here. I am using the hacked Skype app that allows 3g calling. Working great for me so far.
Sent from Samsung Tab using XDA App
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
And where do you find that pls?
xexes said:
And where do you find that pls?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I also updated the 1st post with the link... Here you go though...
http://www.megaupload.com/?d=156KWZVH
Two numbers?
raqball said:
Cons:
--You will have 2 numbers. The one that came on your Tab that is used for SMS/MMS and a number for phone usage. No worries for me though as I give out the Google Voice number as my home number anyway...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Awesome post! I will probably do this tomorrow. $60 a year is a small price to pay to finally make my Tab a phone.
I currently only have the Google Voice app installed (no hacked Skype). When I go into my contacts (app which came with Tab) and I click on a contact, and then click the message icon, a little screen pops up asking if I want to complete the action using Messaging or Google Voice. Furthermore, you can check the "Use by default for this action" to always use Google Voice for texting. When I click Google Voice the text shows up to other people as my Google Voice number.
If the trick in this thread can use your Google Voice number as what shows up to other people as your caller ID, wouldn't this simplify you down again to one number (the Google Voice number)?
the problem with this is skype doesnt work with Bluetooth headset. so you either have to get a WIRED headset or use speaker phone which means no privacy
SteveIndianer said:
Awesome post! I will probably do this tomorrow. $60 a year is a small price to pay to finally make my Tab a phone.
I currently only have the Google Voice app installed (no hacked Skype). When I go into my contacts (app which came with Tab) and I click on a contact, and then click the message icon, a little screen pops up asking if I want to complete the action using Messaging or Google Voice. Furthermore, you can check the "Use by default for this action" to always use Google Voice for texting. When I click Google Voice the text shows up to other people as my Google Voice number.
If the trick in this thread can use your Google Voice number as what shows up to other people as your caller ID, wouldn't this simplify you down again to one number (the Google Voice number)?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It would, but GV still does not do MMS..... Plus you would loose the snazzy Tab SMS/MMS messaging app...
raqball said:
It would, but GV still does not do MMS..... Plus you would loose the snazzy Tab SMS/MMS messaging app...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Yeah, and I love that app....
About 5 minutes after I turned my Tab on I got a text asking if I wanted to buy some chronic/Mex from someone who obviously didn't know their contact's phone no. had changed!
But the app is great!
Not bad, not bad at all. Very good post.
Sent from my Samsung Galaxy Tab
raqball said:
It would, but GV still does not do MMS..... Plus you would loose the snazzy Tab SMS/MMS messaging app...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Good point, decisions decisions! For me I may be willing to sacrifice MMS for the simplicity of one phone number. I would justify it by using video calling, YouTube posting, and Facebook/Picasa pictures. I'm already giving up the native Email app because it puts weird labels on my Gmail emails instead of archiving emails like the Gmail app. So much for "native tablet optimized apps."
Cons for this route:
No 911 support
Two phone numbers or no MMS
Complicated calling procedure through Skype
Pros:
Delicious Galaxy Tab
so is everyone just got to use there tab with speaker phone ? because unless u use a wired headset that what u get since the TAB only has a speaker on the bottom.
if I could only get a Bluetooth headset to work with skype

Free Google Voice VoIP calls using Gingerbread's integrated SIP functionality

I've been experimenting with the built-in SIP functionality in Gingerbread. Here's what I have so far:
I have three different Google Voice numbers. My main GV number is linked to the official GV app on my phone, and I use it for most calls.
My other two numbers forward to SipGate accounts. I configured the Gingerbread internet call menu with my SipGate accounts. My use of those lines is specific and limited enough that I enable SIP calling only when I need it.
I use the Google Voice mobile site when I need to originate calls for my secondary numbers. I know some people prefer third-party callback apps, but sometimes those stop working when Google changes their API. Those numbers are mostly incoming anyway, so that's a minor issue.
Because my phone is rooted, I can make VoIP calls on both wifi and cellular data, although quality suffers on 3G.
If anyone is interested in how to set this up, I posted complete configuration instructions on my blog.
Also, if anyone has ideas for a better setup, I'd love to hear them.
I am just now starting voip class at my college and this seems like a fun little experiment to help me learn a bit and see what it can do. Thanks.
Good guide. I could have used this a few months ago. I've tried exactly the same steps on my Shift, even to the point of installing iDialer and Fring on my HTC Touch Pro 2 (same as the Tilt 2). In both cases I was never happy with the performance though (and I couldn't get iDialer to integrate with GV to make it work as a VOIP only WiFi phone). There's always a lag, which throws off my wife whenever we try to use it.
I just tried Talkatone Preview for Android as well, and it's slightly better, but there's still a lag.
Have you looked at grooveip? the app and a voice number is all you need. Roommates cells got turned off so I went with groove and it seems to work great.
Keep up the great work.
I would probably use this if I needed to make international calls.
I get good enough Sprint service here that I'm never out of coverage, but international calls can run that bill up.
Aestivalis said:
Good guide. I could have used this a few months ago. I've tried exactly the same steps on my Shift, even to the point of installing iDialer and Fring on my HTC Touch Pro 2 (same as the Tilt 2). In both cases I was never happy with the performance though (and I couldn't get iDialer to integrate with GV to make it work as a VOIP only WiFi phone). There's always a lag, which throws off my wife whenever we try to use it.
I just tried Talkatone Preview for Android as well, and it's slightly better, but there's still a lag.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
This is the major pitfall of VOIP in general, but I did find a really cool app that made calls after you listened to an ad. I'll try and locate it. You need a computer and mic for it. It's like Skype, but free.
Grooveip is really nice. I was using that to make free calls back to the states while in sout east asia. Easy to get free wireless hotspots over there.
Sent from my PG06100 using Tapatalk
I use Linphone but it's configured to my home voip provider (Callcentric). It should work also to make free calls though.

No Youmail or Google Voice number Support from Boost

Hi Experts,
I have a strange requirement.
I used to have a Boost iDEN Phone. It looks like the Good old days are over.
The calls were dropping like crazy and I was forced to change to CDMA.
Lets get in to the actual problem.
1. Youmail :
Earlier, I used to go to youmail website register, and dial the number that is there in the Email from Youmail and select the options of Call Forwarding ( while not in coverage, busy, switched off, no answer) and enter the number there.
THATS IT. No need for me to call Voicemail number and happily check my Email who called me.
I also used to get the Company/ or the Actual Name of the person on whose name the phone number is registered, that way I can block the calls easily.
BUT IN THE CDMA PHONE, I DO NOT SEE THAT ANYMORE, ALSO WHEN I CALL BOOST THEY CALL THAT CONCEPT AS CONDITIONAL CALL FORWARDING OR CCF.
BUT Boost CDMA no longer offers that plan.
Guys any idea on how to get my Youmail back. I love it. I was addicted to Youmail and I love the way, that I can decide whether to call any number which I missed because I will have an idea of which company/person the call came from.
But no Luck now. GUYS HELP NEEDED.
2. Google Voice Support.
I do not want to expose my number outside and I want to give my GOOGLE VOICE Number to other People so that if they call me, I can decide whether in the future, if I want to take a call from that number or not. I will block that number in Google Voice and My life was very beautiful earlier when I was using the iDEN service.
This CDMA service is kind of crazy. It has both pros and cons.
I'm using a Flashed HTC EVO 4G phone and I'm getting aroung 1.5 MBps speed on my mobile. I'm now using my Phone as MODEM and browsing the Internet on my Computer, Decent Smart Phone, Android Market place, and much more is on the brighter side.
But on the flip side, I cannot use Youmail, no support to Google Voice.
HELP NEEDED GUYS, ANY HELP OR INFORMATION OR WORK AROUND OR ANY LINKS OR ANY OTHER SERVICES WHICH COMPLEMENT THIS AND GET MY WORK DONE, SOLUTIONS/SUGGESTIONS ARE HIGHLY APPRECIATED.
Thanks,
A J.

Edge 7 and Google Voice

I am coming from a LG G3 to the Galaxy S7 Edge. I had Google Voice working just fine on my G3. I could text/call from my Google Voice number and also my voicemails were automatically sent to Google Voice instead of Verizon.
I installed Google Voice on the Edge and it gave me the normal your carrier doesn't support automatic configuration. On my G3, I just clicked through the configure screens and selected Google Voice and everything worked fine. If I do that on my Edge it doesn't work. When I call my number, it says voicemail hasn't been set up for the phone number instead of forwarding to google voice.
I did the manual process of forwarding calls to Google Voice, *71{phonenumbertotransferto}, *90{phonenumbertotransferto} and *92{phonenumbertotransferto} and it works but it rings 15 times first. This isn't ideal.
Also when I try to use Google Voice to call a number, it looks like it is working but it is calling from my verizon number instead of my Google Voice number.
Anyone have ideas on how to get this to work correctly?
**Update**
I was able to get the time until Google Voicemail picks up shortened by turning on Do Not Disturb in Google Voice settings. This is a work around for me since I don't have people calling me on my Google Voice number. If I did, this wouldn't be an option. Still not able to make calls with Google Voice from my phone though.
May I ask first, why are you still using the defunct Google Voice app? Why haven't you simply switched over to Hangouts?
I ask because Hangouts has everything you have asked for in this post. I use Hangouts and actually 2 Google numbers attached to my phone thru 2 separate Google accounts. This phone has the call forward feature built into the phone settings so you don't even need to dial *71,etc. Just go into phone settings and tell it which number you want to forward your calls to when they are unanswered.
To stop it from ringing 15 times before your call transfers finally to your Google voice mail, you have to stop the call from "bouncing" around I call it. In your google voice settings (easiest to see on your computer)... You probably have both "Forward calls to Google Chat" AND "Work" (or Home or whatever you call your phone you forward your calls to).
You need to uncheck forward calls to Google chat. That will stop the crazy number of rings before it transfers to voicemail. The only other way I know is how you suggested and use Do Not Disturb.
Lastly, again if you use Hangouts, it actually has a dialer app that goes along with it that you can use to dial out just as normal whenever you want to use your google number to dial out. I use it often. It works great.
I hope this wasn't too jumbled. Best of luck!
EDIT: Actually I think the ring problem is fixed with changing the call screening feature in your voice settings (again easiest seen by visiting Google voice settings via your computer). I'm pretty sure I turned on call screening to correct that issue. Been so long since I've messed with the setting LOL. But if you research call screening it actually changes how the system works somewhat, including answering calls, etc. I'm pretty sure that's how I did it. Again sorry for the long winded post.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
Can you explain what you mean by "defunct Google Voice app"?
I use GV to access my mobile voicemail messages, have done so for years...are you saying I should uninstall it and I can use Hangouts to view/listen to my voicemails?
When I go into GV I can see a list of current/previous voicemail messages. In Hangouts I don't see the list of voicemails that I see in the GV app...can you explain a little more how Hangouts can replace GV, and where/how I can get to my voicemails from Hangouts?
Thanks!
Yeah I mean Hangouts has completely replaced Google Voice.
In fact, I haven't used GV since Hangouts came out. I still see the same voicemails I always have. Only now you can see everything that comes into Hangouts all in one place. You still can set up notifications in hangouts when someone leaves you a voicemail, just like in the old GV app. And you can see the transcribed message right there in Hangouts. You can either read it, or hit the play button and hear out loud. I prefer mostly to play them out loud, because a lot of the time Google's auto transcription service is pretty bad, especially with foreign accents.
In Hangouts, you have 3 screens to swipe thru to the left or right. The furthest left is the contacts/settings/etc. The middle is the screen where you would see any voicemail/ text messages. And the furthest right screen is the Hangouts Dialer (you do need to download the dialer app separate in the play store).
Try this. Delete your GV app. Go to the play store and download Hangouts and Hangouts Dialer. Then setup Hangouts. Hangouts dialers will automatically setup when you setup Hangouts. Add your Google account when you set up, and you should be all set. Then of course change your settings how you like. See if it works for you. I personally don't know anyone who uses GV app anymore. Even Google on the play store says its no longer supported.
But yes, when Hangouts came out, it was a COMPLETE replacement for Google Voice app. It's really awesome if you take advantage of all its features.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
---------- Post added at 03:44 PM ---------- Previous post was at 03:30 PM ----------
I should also say this. Hangouts will ask you if you want to make it your default SMS texting app and have all your texts go thru Hangouts. I personally don't do that, but you can. I don't do it only because I don't like the look of hangouts enough to use it all the time for texting. That's just a personal thing. I like to use the stock messaging app that I can keep themed like the rest of the phone from the Samsung theme store. But you can indeed use hangouts as your entire texting/messaging/voicemail platform and it will perform beautifully.
IF you only want to use a separate texting app, just make sure you keep that in mind.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
I do Google voice for my number and use hangouts which I personally don't much like. Is there a messaging app that can accept my GV number other than the stock GV and hangouts apps? I looked a few phones ago and nothing existed at the time to handle GV/hangouts messages.
Don't hold me to this because I haven't used them personally, but I believe you can use something like Groove IP. And I think there's an app on the play store called "Phone for Google Voice". But again I've never used them so I can't say for sure. Hangouts has always filled the void that I needed it to. It's not at all perfect, but Google hardly ever makes a perfect app lol.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
You still need the Google Voice app to place calls over cellular and use your Google Voice number. Without the Google Voice app, the phone dialer either uses your carrier number, or you need to use Hangouts. Hangouts for calls has a very poor echo that everyone I talk to complains about, it heats the phone up extremely fast and kills battery, and if you are in a weak coverage area calls get dropped.
I'm using the Google Voice app fine on my S7 Edge to make and receive calls. Of course I use Hangouts for texting and receiving voicemails though.
I've done that for years. Was just hoping for an alternative messaging app. I've had the same GV number since the first galaxy S lol.
geoff5093 said:
You still need the Google Voice app to place calls over cellular and use your Google Voice number. Without the Google Voice app, the phone dialer either uses your carrier number, or you need to use Hangouts. Hangouts for calls has a very poor echo that everyone I talk to complains about, it heats the phone up extremely fast and kills battery, and if you are in a weak coverage area calls get dropped.
I'm using the Google Voice app fine on my S7 Edge to make and receive calls. Of course I use Hangouts for texting and receiving voicemails though.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't call out much on my GV number, so i use hangouts when I do.
That being said, you indeed can get other apps... Or at least used to be able to, that would let you dial out with your GV number. Phone+ comes to mind, Groove IP like I mentioned before, and others. Some are just app setups that will allow you to pick contacts that auto dial out on your GV number. I think it's Phone+ that does something like that. I just saw a thread over in the regular S7 forums where people were having some of the same issues. Apparently when HD calling was enabled a while ago, it maybe helped to make it harder for all who used Google Voice. I see it looks like it started back on the S6 or S5. This is my first new phone since my Note 3 so go figure lol....
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
GV still exists and still works, and does a few things that Hangouts doesn't seem to do.
As far as the OP goes, I am working through the same issues with voicemail.
*edit, based on what I'm seeing, the only way to reduce the rings on Verizon's end is to call customer support and request it. I'll try it when I have time and update. Also, call forwarding can be configured from the Verizon website as well https://wbillpay.verizonwireless.com/vzw/secure/services/CallForward.action
Verizon customer service was able to shorten the ring time (I asked for 15 seconds from 30). Everything is working fine for me, including calling out from the GV number using the stock Samsung dialer, so I'm not sure what your issue is there. In GV, did you set the "make calls as" setting to use the GV number? Alternatively using the Hangouts dialer from the Hangouts app should work also.
turbosrrgood said:
GV still exists and still works, and does a few things that Hangouts doesn't seem to do.
As far as the OP goes, I am working through the same issues with voicemail.
*edit, based on what I'm seeing, the only way to reduce the rings on Verizon's end is to call customer support and request it. I'll try it when I have time and update. Also, call forwarding can be configured from the Verizon website as well https://wbillpay.verizonwireless.com/vzw/secure/services/CallForward.action
Verizon customer service was able to shorten the ring time (I asked for 15 seconds from 30). Everything is working fine for me, including calling out from the GV number using the stock Samsung dialer, so I'm not sure what your issue is there. In GV, did you set the "make calls as" setting to use the GV number? Alternatively using the Hangouts dialer from the Hangouts app should work also.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was completely unaware that calling and asking for shortening of the unanswered ring time still worked. Thanks for that info, good to know. I thought that option was long gone.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
WiFi Calling Was my Culprit
So despite everyone telling the OP that Google Voice sucks, I still think it's functionality if FAR preferable to Hangouts. Not only is the interface much cleaner, but the Chrome extension on desktop is much more conducive to texting and voicemail management. In addition, it is totally integrated with Google Contact management, which is a plus.
I switched to a Galaxy S7 Edge yesterday and had setup issues with Voice. Finally after a conference call with Sprint and Google support (Google was just kind enough to help, since Google offers no live support for free apps), we found out that it is indeed WiFi Calling that is the culprit in Voice setup. However, it's not enough to simply uninstall the native app and turn off WiFi Calling, you have to go into the WiFi Calling settings and disable the service completely. For me that was at the bottom of the 9-1-1 location settings page. After disabling WiFi Calling, my profile automatically updated, I uninstalled Google Voice and reinstalled, and setup was a total breeze, everything was right with the world, and I can continue using Hangouts as it should be, to share GIFs with my friends and talk trash about Fantasy Football.
I hope this helps anyone with this issue, the Sprint Technical Support guy said he'd run across it yesterday and had no idea what to do with the issue until now.
KBP83 said:
So despite everyone telling the OP that Google Voice sucks, I still think it's functionality if FAR preferable to Hangouts. Not only is the interface much cleaner, but the Chrome extension on desktop is much more conducive to texting and voicemail management. In addition, it is totally integrated with Google Contact management, which is a plus.
I switched to a Galaxy S7 Edge yesterday and had setup issues with Voice. Finally after a conference call with Sprint and Google support (Google was just kind enough to help, since Google offers no live support for free apps), we found out that it is indeed WiFi Calling that is the culprit in Voice setup. However, it's not enough to simply uninstall the native app and turn off WiFi Calling, you have to go into the WiFi Calling settings and disable the service completely. For me that was at the bottom of the 9-1-1 location settings page. After disabling WiFi Calling, my profile automatically updated, I uninstalled Google Voice and reinstalled, and setup was a total breeze, everything was right with the world, and I can continue using Hangouts as it should be, to share GIFs with my friends and talk trash about Fantasy Football.
I hope this helps anyone with this issue, the Sprint Technical Support guy said he'd run across it yesterday and had no idea what to do with the issue until now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't think anyone told him the GV app sucked. Originally I was asking him why he was still using the GV app, just to get an idea of his issues and how to better help the situation. In particular, I just said it was defunct, aka antiquated....and it is. It still has its uses as a legacy app, or as a stand alone app in circumstances, but for the most part, it's still around for legacy support. Up until recently, Google even listed it this way on the play store.
The GV app still does one thing Hangouts won't do. Hangouts will only make wifi or voip calls. The GV app WILL call out from your GV number, but it will use cellular service and use your phone minutes. That's about the only reason I see to actually have the GV app still. Hangouts has every one of my contacts integrated just like any other app I have on my phone that does the same thing. Admittedly, Hangouts contacts view is really ugly lol.
As far as the PC side, I have Hangouts installed on my windows 10 laptop, and it rings beautifully every time I get a call or text, I can check voicemails, etc. All my contacts are integrated for both Gmail accounts that i can keep running simultaneously. It works quite well. I also have Google Voice chrome extensions. Everything works fine together.
The rest is just preference and style choice. I've never had issues with Hangouts. And I never really had issues with the Voice app before that. I've also not had the unfortunate bad luck of dealing with the setup problems everyone seems to be having. I have NOT however, set up wifi calling yet on my S7Edge, so my guess it that's why I'm not experiencing all the issues people are having with setup.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
KBP83 said:
So despite everyone telling the OP that Google Voice sucks, I still think it's functionality if FAR preferable to Hangouts. Not only is the interface much cleaner, but the Chrome extension on desktop is much more conducive to texting and voicemail management. In addition, it is totally integrated with Google Contact management, which is a plus.
I switched to a Galaxy S7 Edge yesterday and had setup issues with Voice. Finally after a conference call with Sprint and Google support (Google was just kind enough to help, since Google offers no live support for free apps), we found out that it is indeed WiFi Calling that is the culprit in Voice setup. However, it's not enough to simply uninstall the native app and turn off WiFi Calling, you have to go into the WiFi Calling settings and disable the service completely. For me that was at the bottom of the 9-1-1 location settings page. After disabling WiFi Calling, my profile automatically updated, I uninstalled Google Voice and reinstalled, and setup was a total breeze, everything was right with the world, and I can continue using Hangouts as it should be, to share GIFs with my friends and talk trash about Fantasy Football.
I hope this helps anyone with this issue, the Sprint Technical Support guy said he'd run across it yesterday and had no idea what to do with the issue until now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm on Sprint, but had the exact same experience. Been dealing with it for a few weeks. And this was the only solution.
As far as using Hangouts instead of the GV app- I can't get what you guys are describing to work. I have Hangouts installed, I installed the dialer, but nothing I do shows my voicemails. I only see the text messages and a call log. I'd be interested in another option to the GV app, which I think is adequate, but not great.
mwshows said:
May I ask first, why are you still using the defunct Google Voice app? Why haven't you simply switched over to Hangouts?
I ask because Hangouts has everything you have asked for in this post. I use Hangouts and actually 2 Google numbers attached to my phone thru 2 separate Google accounts. This phone has the call forward feature built into the phone settings so you don't even need to dial *71,etc. Just go into phone settings and tell it which number you want to forward your calls to when they are unanswered.
To stop it from ringing 15 times before your call transfers finally to your Google voice mail, you have to stop the call from "bouncing" around I call it. In your google voice settings (easiest to see on your computer)... You probably have both "Forward calls to Google Chat" AND "Work" (or Home or whatever you call your phone you forward your calls to).
You need to uncheck forward calls to Google chat. That will stop the crazy number of rings before it transfers to voicemail. The only other way I know is how you suggested and use Do Not Disturb.
Lastly, again if you use Hangouts, it actually has a dialer app that goes along with it that you can use to dial out just as normal whenever you want to use your google number to dial out. I use it often. It works great.
I hope this wasn't too jumbled. Best of luck!
EDIT: Actually I think the ring problem is fixed with changing the call screening feature in your voice settings (again easiest seen by visiting Google voice settings via your computer). I'm pretty sure I turned on call screening to correct that issue. Been so long since I've messed with the setting LOL. But if you research call screening it actually changes how the system works somewhat, including answering calls, etc. I'm pretty sure that's how I did it. Again sorry for the long winded post.
Sent from my SM-G935V using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was using the GV app and I tried this setup but my calls and VM's don't show up in Hangouts. I can't seem to get them to show up.
I figured it out. You have to select this option in Hangouts.
As a follow up:
Working with a few Sprint techs got me this info. GV won't work if WiFi calling is set up or enabled. It doesn't matter if you turn it off. It has to be completely deactivated.
I've been using GV for many years, and never had a problem on other phones, even using WiFi Calling. This is obviously a s/w issue. Hopefully it can be remedied in a future update.
I just upgraded from an S4 to S7. I too have been using GV since it came out. Hangouts option to be used as a default messaging app is giving me reason to try it, as it's been horrid for quite some time. To make calls from your GV number, install the GV app and use it's settings for which number. To get GV vm in Hangouts, again use GV option to have them available for Hangouts (there is a setting in GV).
My question for the group, how do you get Verizons VM to Hangouts? The old way through GV appears to not work. Having my Verizon number forwarded to GV results in my phone not ringing for either number, but it does ring on desktop.
brohan said:
I just upgraded from an S4 to S7. I too have been using GV since it came out. Hangouts option to be used as a default messaging app is giving me reason to try it, as it's been horrid for quite some time. To make calls from your GV number, install the GV app and use it's settings for which number. To get GV vm in Hangouts, again use GV option to have them available for Hangouts (there is a setting in GV).
My question for the group, how do you get Verizons VM to Hangouts? The old way through GV appears to not work. Having my Verizon number forwarded to GV results in my phone not ringing for either number, but it does ring on desktop.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Dial *71 followed by your google voice number and follow the prompts to set up call forwarding.

Categories

Resources