I did not know about services like SMSPool when I created the Google account for my Android TV box. From what I remember, I used a real phone number from a country that doesn’t require ID to buy or register a prepaid SIM card. I just happen to be in that country at that moment. After I created the account, I immediately enabled 2FA via authentication app, so I wouldn’t need the number anymore.
If you are in a country where ID registration is not required for repaid SIM cards, I recommend you try that first. If you live in a country that requires ID, then yes, I recommend SMSPool or another service like it like JMP Chat.
That being said, if you do use those services, I highly recommend that you:
- Keep the number for at least a month.
- Enable 2FA via authentication app right after you created your account.
- Keep logging into that account multiple times a week for at least a month.
I described my experienced with SMS Pool here.
Don’t make the same mistakes I made.