Google Gets Web Phone Service

Google has reportedly acquired California-based GrandCentral Communications, a company that provides Web-based services for managing voice communication.

GrandCentral's Web services allow users to integrate all of their existing phone numbers and voice through one simple interface.

In its blog post, Google said, "We think GrandCentral's technology fits well into Google's efforts to provide services that enhance the collaborative exchange of information between our users."

GrandCentral's Web services complement existing phone services. For instance, users with multiple phone numbers can get one phone number programmed to ring all/some/none of the numbers, depending on who is calling.

The services also feature a central voice mailbox, where calls can be recorded and then accessed online or from any phone, as well as forwarded to other phones.

GrandCentral's Web services have been in beta testing since September 2006, and Google says it will continue to support current beta users who are accessing the service for free. And, a limited number of users will be able to sign-up for new invitations for continued beta testing.

A post on the GrandCentral site said, "The service will remain operational as will the site while we integrate with Google. Google will continue to support uninterrupted service for all current GrandCentral customers."

Meanwhile, speculation is on that Google might build the unified communications and call-handling functionality of GrandCentral into Google Talk. Or that, it might build GrandCentral into Gmail...