[Updated] Google Voice number porting is now available to all users

[Update] Number porting is now available to all existing Google Voice users [/Update]

Google has quietly enabled ability to port existing mobile numbers to Google Voice. Currently, it is available to selected Google Voice users only. The inability to port existing numbers has been the main reason preventing more widespread adoption of Google Voice.

Google Voice provides numerous useful features such as voicemail transcription, one number calling multiple phones, and low international rates. However, many features were available only when used with the Google number.  Switching to a new Google Voice number was always a hassle, because a new number had to be provided to all contacts. Number porting solves this problem and allows to start using your existing mobile phone number as a full featured Google Voice number.

Few caveats:

• Porting mobile phone number will disconnect your mobile service plan, which may result in early termination fees. Double check that you are out of contract prior to porting.
• Landline numbers are not supported yet.
• Number porting is available to selected users for a limited time, but full launch can be expected soon. Here’s a statement from Google obtained by Techcrunch:

“We’re continually testing new features to enhance the user experience. For a limited amount of time, we’re making the Google Voice number porting process available to users. We don’t have any additional details to share at this time, but plan to offer this feature to all users in the near future.”

Source: Techcrunch.