Both Skype and Google Voice are advanced Internet-based calling services that allow users to better manage their messages and save money on voice and video calls. While the two services offer different features and are based on different technology, the services are in competition with each other. Both services are designed for users who want to avoid calling charges from phone services that operate over traditional landlines or over cellular networks.
Skype
Skype is a popular Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) service offered by Skype Limited of Luxembourg. Introduced in July 2004, Skype allows users to make computer-to-computer calls to any Skype user for free, regardless of where in the world they are located. In addition, users can make calls from Skype to regular phones for a low per-minute charge. Skype had more than 560 million users as of 2011. There is also a feature called "SkypeIn" that allows people using regular phones to call a Skype user on their Skype phone number.
Google Voice
Google Voice, a service offered by Google Inc., is a unified messaging service using VoIP technology. The service was formerly known as GrandCentral Communications before the company was acquired by Google in 2007. Using their existing phone number, Google Voice can route incoming calls to multiple landlines and cell phones until the user answers. It also comes with several advanced phone system features, including call blocking, call screening, voice mail transcription and voice mail. Incoming and outgoing calls within the U.S. are free and international calls are charged.
Differences
A major difference between Google Voice and Skype is how a call is originated. Skype is a VoIP client, which means the user installs Skype on their computer and calls are made over Skype's proprietary peer-to-peer technology. Google Voice users, on the other hand, must call into their voice mail service from any phone and press a button to initiate an outbound call. In addition, Skype includes a video calling service, which Google Voice does not. Instead, users can use a separate Google application, Google Talk, which offers basic video chatting capabilities.
Considerations
Google Voice users can use virtually any type of landline or mobile phone to make and receive calls. However, Skype users must either use the Skype application on their computer or they can purchase a portable Skype phone, which frees them from having to be at their computer. With the Skype phone, a base station is connected to the computer through a USB port or via a free port on a user's router. The phone sends calling signals wirelessly to the base station. Another option is purchasing a special adapter that can connect to a mobile or landline phone, the computer and the telephone jack in the wall to make Skype calls.
Tags: Google Voice, Skype phone, their computer, voice mail, base station