One number forever. Advanced Tools. Oh, and it's by Google.

Today I started testing GrandCentral, a unified messaging type platform acquired by Google back in July. Why did Google do this? According to them:
=
A: Google acquired GrandCentral because its communications services fit into Google's mission to organize the world's information and to provide services and features that enhance the collaborative exchange of information between our users.
=

I think this supports the following facts:

1. Phone numbers used to be tied to locations, now they are tied to people. We don't call a place, we call a number becuase we are trying to reach a person.
2. Phone numbers (which are now one element of our identity) should not change. When regulation was finally lifted allowing people to hold onto their mobile phone numbers when switching carriers, that was a major step. However, using a service like this which is not dependant on any carrier or physical location, this gives users the greatest flexibility.
3. Google likes innovative, simple applications which it can easily integrate into its other platforms.

Can something like GrandCentral soon challange traditional phone systems for businesses? Will they integrate with Gtalk? It's all possible, but Google is not talking yet. There are now dozens of such services available. However, when chosing any service, I have a basic policy - go with the big boys, becuase you KNOW they will be around. Not to mention that Google is one of the only ones around that has the ability to make an acquisition of this type, and take it to market in such a model that it's FREE for users!

So - Who wants an Account? I have at least 5 invitations I can give out to anyone who is interested! Post a comment, and let me know!