Google Fi Wireless has announced a significant update for iPhone users, introducing native visual voicemail support within the iOS Phone app. This enhancement eliminates the previous necessity of accessing voicemails through the Google Fi app, streamlining the user experience.
The rollout commenced on June 24, 2025, and is scheduled for completion by July 2, 2025. Upon full implementation, iPhone users will have the capability to play, share, and delete voicemail messages directly from the built-in Phone app, aligning the functionality with that of standard carrier services.
Transition from Google Fi App to Native Integration
Prior to this update, Google Fi subscribers on iOS devices were required to use the Google Fi app to access voicemail messages. This setup often led to duplicated notifications from both the Phone and Fi apps, causing confusion and delays in message retrieval. By integrating visual voicemail into the native iOS interface, Google Fi aims to provide a more cohesive and user-friendly experience.
Action Required: Downloading Old Voicemail Messages
As part of this transition, Google Fi is phasing out voicemail access within its iOS app. Users who wish to retain their existing voicemail messages must download them using Google Takeout before August 13, 2025. After this date, these voicemails will no longer be accessible. Detailed instructions for downloading messages are available through Google Takeout and Google’s support page.
Setting Up Visual Voicemail on iPhone
To activate visual voicemail within the iOS Phone app, users should follow these steps:
1. Update the Google Fi App: Ensure that the Google Fi app is updated to the latest version available on the App Store.
2. Open the Phone App: Launch the native Phone app on your iPhone.
3. Access Voicemail Tab: Tap on the Voicemail tab located at the bottom right corner of the screen.
4. Set Up Voicemail: Follow the on-screen prompts to set up your voicemail greeting and other preferences.
Once set up, voicemails will appear in a list format within the Phone app, allowing users to listen to messages, read transcripts, and manage voicemails directly from this interface.
Broader Enhancements for iOS Users
This visual voicemail integration is part of a series of iOS-focused improvements by Google Fi. Earlier this year, Apple introduced RCS (Rich Communication Services) support in iOS 18.4, enabling richer messaging features for iPhone users on Fi. Additionally, in April, Google Fi simplified the setup and activation process for iPhones, introduced data-only eSIM options, and expanded international 5G support to 92 countries for eligible plans.
Implications for iPhone Users on Google Fi
The introduction of native visual voicemail addresses a longstanding limitation for iPhone users on Google Fi. Previously, the lack of integration required users to manage voicemails through the Google Fi app, which was less convenient compared to the seamless experience offered by other carriers. This update signifies Google Fi’s commitment to enhancing service parity between Android and iOS platforms, ensuring a more consistent and user-friendly experience across devices.
Looking Ahead
As Google Fi celebrates its 10th anniversary, the service continues to evolve, focusing on user-centric enhancements and expanding its offerings. The integration of visual voicemail into the iOS Phone app is a testament to Google Fi’s dedication to improving user experience and adapting to the needs of its diverse subscriber base.
