Text messages are failing to send for some Google Voice users

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Google Voice service has been available since 2009. It offers users a virtual phone number linked to their Google account. 

This service enables users to call and send text messages online using a web browser or a paired mobile device. 

However, recent regulatory changes appear to be causing issues for Google Voice users, particularly when sending text messages, and no clear resolution is in sight.

Discussions on Google’s support forums and Reddit (via Android Police) indicate that many Google Voice users have encountered problems when sending text messages through their Google Voice numbers. 

The core issue seems to be Google’s compliance with US application-to-person (A2P) messaging regulations. 

There is no solution, but here’s what you can do

According to a “Diamond Product Expert” on the Google Voice Help forum, these difficulties stem from 10DLC (10-digit extended code) messaging restrictions.

10DLC messaging regulations were introduced to regulate how businesses use VoIP services, such as Google Voice, to send messages. 

These rules aim to prevent businesses from leveraging such platforms for marketing, spam, or mass communication and ensure that messages from legitimate business numbers are registered and vetted. 

Unfortunately, these restrictions appear to be inadvertently affecting everyday Google Voice users as well, even those who use the service for personal communication.

Users who send messages via the Google Voice web interface are particularly impacted, with some messages being blocked. 

To mitigate the issue, the Google Voice Product Expert suggested a few troubleshooting steps:

• Ensure that no [.*]google.com cookies are blocked.
• Avoid using browser extensions or plugins that might interfere with Google’s cookies. If unsure, temporarily disable or uninstall them.
• Do not use scripts or automation tools to send similar or repetitive messages, including copying and pasting blocks of text.

Additionally, users are advised to review Google Voice’s Acceptable Use Policy to ensure they are not violating any terms. 

However, even if users comply with all the guidelines, their messages may not be delivered. 

This has frustrated many, as Google has yet to provide an official statement or a clear resolution for affected users.

Have you experienced any issues with Google Voice messaging recently? We’d love to hear about your experience with the service and how the recent 10DLC regulations have affected your usage. Share your thoughts in the comments below.