Google Voice service blocks fewer than 100 numbers

WASHINGTON -- Google Inc. says its free messaging and calling service, Google Voice, blocks calls to fewer than 100 phone numbers likely to be adult chat lines and free conference call services.

The company made the disclosure in a letter to the Federal Communications Commission. The FCC opened an inquiry into call blocking by Google Voice earlier this month after AT&T Inc. complained that the service restricts calls to rural communities where local phone companies charge high connection fees.

So-called "common carrier" regulations prevent AT&T and other phone companies from blocking those same calls. But Mountain View, Calif.-based Google says its Voice service should not be subject to common carrier laws because it is a free online application, not a replacement for traditional phone service.