Remember how back in March we reported that Google may be getting rid of Google Voice and rolling it into Hangouts? Turns out we were partially right. The search giant will roll out a new version of Hangouts (2.3 for those keeping track at home) in the next few days that will include free calls to the U.S. and Canada, with low international rates. Unlike some other solutions we could mention (FaceTime Audio, for example), you’re not limited to people using that service. You can call any line – a virtual number, land line, or mobile. Also, it works on the iOS version as well as Android.
There’s no news on if the separate Voice app is going away or when incoming calling will be fully rolled out, but either way, this is a welcome development. One less app to switch back and forth into always is.
I really hope they roll voicemail in before killing Voice. If it continues to use my google voice number, I might actually be apt to use it more once it’s integrated.
But are they going to force you into creating a G+ profile? Still don’t have one and don’t want one.