How to send texts from a web browser using Google Voice or an email service

Ryan Ariano
·3 min read
GettyImages 539669239
It's possible to send texts from your web browser if you'd prefer to use a computer. Tetra Images/Getty Images

  • You can send text messages from your web browser on any computer.

  • Using Google Voice, you can make calls and send desktop text messages easily.

  • You can also send text messages from an email client through a number-based address.

  • Visit Insider's Tech Reference library for more stories.

Sometimes you want to send a text, but you either can't find your phone or you'd rather send it from your computer with files stored there. On newer Macs that are connected to your phone over iCloud, you can access your Messages app. Luckily for PC users, you can also send texts from your web browser.

There are several ways to do this, including downloading extra applications, but the simplest ways to send texts from a web browser is to utilize either Google Voice or your email. Just note that Google Voice is currently only enabled for sending messages within the US and Canada, or to American and Canadian phone numbers.

You can also opt to use Google's Messages for web feature.

How to send texts from a web browser using Google Voice

  1. Go to the Google Voice website.

  2. Click on "For personal use."

    How to send texts from a web browser 1
    Click on the option to send messages for personal use. Ryan Ariano/Business Insider

  3. Scroll down to the "Web" option to send over the web.

  4. Signing up will create a new number for you. On the next page, type in your city or zip code. Available numbers will show up. Select one by clicking on it.

  5. Once you choose your number, it will ask you for your actual phone number to verify you have one.

    How_to_send_texts_from_a_web_browser_2
    To get a Google Voice number to send texts, you will need to verify your real number. Ryan Ariano/Business Insider

  6. Type in your number and Google Voice will send you a code to connect it to a real phone.

  7. You are now signed in. On the landing page, click on the Message icon.

    How_to_send_texts_from_a_web_browser_3
    Click on the message icon in the left of your Google Voice desktop. Ryan Ariano/Business Insider

  8. Once you have the message sidebar open, click on "+ Send new message."

  9. At the top of this screen, type in the number you want to send a text to. At the bottom is the entry bar where you can type your text.

    How_to_send_texts_from_a_web_browser_4
    Type the number you want to message up top and type your message down in the bottom, then click on the send arrow. Ryan Ariano/Business Insider

  10. Once you have your message, click on the send message icon (a green arrow). You have now sent a text message over Google Voice.

How to send texts from a web browser using your email

  1. Open your email and click on the option to write a new email.

  2. To find the carrier-based email address for the number you want to text, click on a site that will do this for you, such as Free Carrier Lookup.

  3. Enter that number-based address into the address line of the email.

    How_to_send_texts_from_a_web_browser_5
    Type the number with its carrier code email address into the address line and type and send the text as you would a standard email. Ryan Ariano/Business Insider

  4. Now type and send your text as you would send an email.

Related coverage from Tech Reference:

Read the original article on Business Insider

Recommended Stories