Lots of news & commentary today about Google Voice. I got my invite earlier today and, after clicking around a bit, am wondering why more of the analysis (as in none that I’ve read) doesn’t mention the implications for Google Voice when combined with Android. As I noted in a previous post, it’s not hard to imagine Android-powered devices (whether phones or netbooks, the distinction is becoming academic) that completely replace carrier-connected smartphones. My previous take on this relied on 3rd-party VOIP services like Skype or Truphone to provide the voice/SMS service, but Google Voice makes those services much less relevant.
I particularly like the seamless integration of Google Contacts across both Voice and Gmail. One of the most satisfying aspects of my G1 experience has been the ease with which my core Google services (Gmail / GCal / Contacts) now live on my mobile device. With voice in the mix Google can now make a credible bid to be my “default carrier”, with mobile network minutes a commodity I can add on as needed.
With Google Voice in the house I’m doubling down on my earlier prediction: Android is going to be a much bigger deal than most people expect.