I came across an interesting blog about a month ago about a startup web venture called GrandCentral (http://www.grandcentral.com) which had just been purchased by Google. GrandCentral is a one phone number that can ring all or selected phones you choose. The setup is by invitation only at this point and the site is still in beta release. Overall is simple to startup and use. I signed up for an invite on the main page and got an email response a few weeks later.
Setup with GrandCentral was a snap. The user interface is simple and easy. Choosing a phone number within your area code is easy as well. With the free phone number issued by GrandCentral I can choose one or all of my phones to ring when someone calls that line. For instance, calling my GrandCentral number will ring my home phone, cell phone, work phone, etc. All or one, depending on what I choose. This is a great convenience feature for people with multiple lines/locations, business travelers and emergency calls.
Voicemail is accessible online and the website keeps a call log, address book and more. The service is free but there are premium paid features available as well. Definitely worth a look for those on the go. As I said at the beginning, GrandCentral is now part of Google and may mark Google’s entry into phone & telecommunications. There are whispers of a Google Phone and several Google apps are currently available for mobile phones (Google Maps, Gmail, etc.). Either way GrandCentral is a cool utility.