Yes but that requires extra work. With google voice all I need is get a sim card, and I am done, I don't even know or care to know what number is associated with that sim card, my number is my google voice. Also if someone is texting me and I'm in front of a computer I can reply from the chrome extension. Plus I can send anonymous callers to spam. I would hate to go back to the old style phone number!
It is especially great if you are moving around internationally. You don't have to keep track of some old stand-by contract or recharge a prepaid calling card but just can keep your number. I really hope they don't kill that thing.