Google has recently announced several significant updates for Google Voice, including a refreshed user interface and the long-awaited addition of a three-way calling feature. This update aims to both enhance the overall visual appeal of the application and address customer requests. Focusing on the new feature, three-way calling, this enhancement has been highly requested by users for a considerable time. Google highlights various scenarios where this function could be beneficial, such as enabling communication with a translator or legal advisor during calls.

However, in practice, most users are likely to utilize this feature for casual conversations among friends or for professional exchanges. To initiate a three-way call, users must tap the ‘Add’ button during an ongoing call to select a third participant, followed by choosing the ‘Merge’ option. It is important to note that this feature is only available to Google Workspace customers subscribed to specific plans, namely Voice Starter, Voice Standard, Voice Premier, SIP Link Standard, or SIP Link Premier. In addition to the new calling feature, Google has updated the in-call user interface for all users, irrespective of their subscription status.

This redesign draws inspiration from Google Meet, resulting in an overall improved user experience. Key controls, such as the keypad, mute button, sound settings, and call recording feature, are now prominently located at the bottom of the screen. While other actions like call transferring and merging are also accessible, they are not as prominently displayed. Despite these updates, Google Voice has faced challenges, including reports of declining user numbers.

Although the recent additions are a step forward, many users still find certain features like RCS absent, leading to dissatisfaction regarding the necessity of paid subscriptions for basic functionalities like three-way calling.