Can I use my cell phone as a radio?

No, a conventional cell phone cannot be used directly as an amateur radio device because it operates on completely different frequencies and protocols. Amateur radios operate on special frequency bands allocated for the amateur radio service and use modulation types appropriate for communication over those bands. However, there are apps that can connect to amateur radio networks via the Internet, allowing you to communicate indirectly via a cell phone, but this requires an existing Internet connection and is not the same as classic amateur radio, which uses independent communication channels. To participate in amateur radio, you must have a licensed radio and an appropriate license.