You can turn your old Android phone into a ham radio - here's how Unfortunately it's a little bit more involved than downloading an app.

[RV_]

Smartphones have essentially all but replaced other methods of communication, but there are times when having access to a ham radio could be a lifesaver -- especially during disasters. Well, there is a way to take an Android phone -- perhaps an old one that you have tossed into a drawer -- and transform it into a fully-functioning ham radio.

However, if you think it's as easy as downloading an app, I'm sorry to tell you that it's a bit more involved. The good news is that you can build it for about $35.

The project, called kv4p HT, is a homebrew VHF radio that is capable of both voice and text communication. 

Note that to use this legally in the US you will need a level 1 Technician class license, details of which you can find here. 

Parts list and assembly video here:

https://www.zdnet.com/article/you-can-turn-your-old-android-phone-into-a-ham-radio-heres-how/

 

 

[TXiceman]

Why bother, you can pick up this for less than $30 and ready to go.

https://www.amazon.com/BAOFENG-Tri-Band-Talkies-Frequency-Charging/dp/B0CS5YC78T/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.kJ6FXjF3V86T00-9bWNOl8fQUlcMkhj7rKLlOs4wFTMeJLlGDiW6cJ5qhf_y9R4hW8NqiSCIhBqniJZr4e5ABi7A04OsYl4eqcvlXQuVUEs10DU03SPtsz4ABdKnYd9U_5Lipgs7lUj4rEWIQmV-IkzGCkNnFRd1gAKaYsx5Jbm9eiUY_TzkseQGnJ9XjPlk3wkHDmkXzeJKhjjY6B0WRgA731FHaFXLFbQxiN3eg-onkssY6NOwpyaR9LRksJB5v5YrSGOTxCK0OW1GuvHsf2lZ2Mr2IzWWQZXCDRoGkoo.EybsHg3stIDrki6gwrl4DBRHIOBj09pKsTlQtr_2Y7c&dib_tag=se&keywords=2+meter+radio&qid=1729645130&s=electronics&sr=1-1