Google Voice?

It seems that Google is getting into everything. Even after recently discontinuing Google Print Ads, they're announcing Google Voice, based off of GrandCentral a company they purchased a while ago. 

You have to love Google's willingness to experiment. Their willing to dive into things and try it out. What's also interesting is that, if you look closely, there is minimal investment. Often times their applying a technology or solution that they've already developed. For example, Google Print Ads leveraged Google Ad Words technology. 

Cool but I'm not sure where Google Voice is going. First of all, I can't port a number. So that means I have to take one of their numbers and then inform everyone of my new number in order to really get the benefit of it's impressive features list.

Eventually they have to start making money off of this. Does that mean I'm going to have to listen to a commercial or get text messages from companies I haven't given permission? Worse yet, what if people who are calling me have to listen to that?

Can't port my number, may get unwanted advertising. I'm going to have to say no for right now.

 - Paul Herring