As it stands, Google Home speakers can be used to make calls via your internet connection, with or without your phone hooked up to them.
However, the latest tweak to the smart home range will allow regular mobile phone calls to join this VoIP service.Currently only available to customers of Australian mobile provider Telstra, this service allows you to register your mobile number with your Google Home device, allowing you to make calls via the telco's mobile network without the need for a phone.Up to six users can register their numbers with their smart home speaker, with each being able to sync their mobile contact list to the speaker.
In order to distinguish between which user is making the call request, though, youll need to set up Googles Voice Match.To start using this feature, customers should visit the Telstra mobile calling section in their Google Home app and enter their mobile number.
Once its verified by entering your PIN code, youll be able to sync your mobile contacts.From there, users can make calls by saying Hey Google, call followed by the name of the contact, the name of a business, or a phone number.
Calls are at no additional cost to your existing mobile plan, according to Telstra, but data charges may apply.Along with being a Telstra customer, youll also need a compatible smartphone, a Google/Gmail account, and a compatible Google Home or Nest device (Mini, Home, Max, or Hub).All Telstra customers have access to the functionality right away, and while there isnt any word on when this will land with other telcos or other global regions, it seems likely that it wont be too long before it becomes standard.Aussies looking to get started can visit the Telstra support page for further details.