Find all the answers about virtual US numbers, US mobile carriers, Google Voice compatibility, and eSIM activation from abroad.
A virtual US number is a US phone number that works over the Internet (VoIP) or through a mobile carrier. It allows you to receive SMS and calls from anywhere in the world, without being physically present in the United States. Ideal for account verification, creating US bank accounts, or simply having a US presence.
VoIP numbers (like those from Twilio or Google Voice) only work over the Internet. Mobile numbers (like Tello or Ultra Mobile) are real phone lines on US networks. Some services like banks or Uber may block VoIP but accept mobile numbers.
Prices range from $0 (Google Voice, TextNow) to $3/month (Ultra Mobile PayGo), $5/month (Tello) or $15/month (Mint Mobile). Twilio VoIP numbers start at $2/month at VOICETALK. It all depends on your needs.
Yes, but Google Voice requires a real US number for verification. Carriers like Tello, Ultra Mobile PayGo ($3/month) or Mint Mobile work perfectly. Once Google Voice is activated, you no longer need that verification number.
Yes, Tello is 100% compatible with Google Voice. As a prepaid mobile carrier on the T-Mobile network, it is recognized as a real US number by Google. You can use it for initial verification and linking your Google Voice account.
Yes, Tello offers remote eSIM activation. You can sign up and activate your line from any country via the Tello app. No physical SIM card is needed if your phone is eSIM compatible.
There are no hidden fees with Tello. No contract, no activation fees, no cancellation fees. You only pay for the plan you choose. Taxes and regulatory fees are included in the displayed price.
Yes, the PayGo plan costs exactly $3 per month. It includes 30 minutes of calls or 30 SMS. If you only use a few SMS per month, a $10 top-up can last more than 3 months.
Absolutely. Ultra Mobile PayGo is recommended by the Google Voice community as one of the best options. For $3/month, you receive the Google Voice verification SMS and keep your number active for future confirmations.
Ultra Mobile offers remotely activatable eSIM. Download the Ultra Mobile app, create an account, and choose the PayGo plan. Activation takes a few minutes without being in the United States.
Yes, Mint Mobile is compatible with Google Voice. As a prepaid mobile carrier on the T-Mobile network, it allows verification and use of Google Voice without restrictions.
The 5GB plan at $15/month on a 12-month subscription is the most economical. 15GB and 25GB plans are also available. All include unlimited SMS and calls to the US.
Yes, Mint Mobile offers eSIM and can be activated from any country via the official app.
For Google Voice, the GSM (T-Mobile) network offers the best compatibility. The Warp 5G (Verizon) network also works but GSM is recommended by the community.
US Mobile custom plans start at $10/month. Pooled plans are $9 + $2 per line. It's an interesting option if you need multiple US numbers.
Yes, US Mobile eSIM is remotely activatable. Activation is instant via the app.
Yes, Google Voice is completely free for calls and SMS to the United States. The app is available on Android, iOS and the web.
You need two things: a VPN with a US IP address and an existing US number for verification. Use Tello or Ultra Mobile PayGo to get that verification number.
Google Voice works with some US banks but not all. Major banks like Bank of America or Wells Fargo accept Google Voice numbers. However, some banks and services may block VoIP numbers.
Yes, TextNow is 100% free. The app assigns you a US number with no subscription. The service is funded by advertising.
Since TextNow is a VoIP number, some banks and verification services may block it. For US bank accounts, it's better to use a real mobile number like Tello.
Yes, TextNow works everywhere in the world via WiFi or mobile data. The app is available on Google Play and the App Store.