Virtual ham radio

Although I own a "network radio", I am not a great fan.   Using an app called Droidstar, I can access to the DMR network across the planet. Effectively, all you need is an Android phone. Mine has a PTT and looks just like a VHF handheld

There are radios that use systems like Echolink. These use the internet, but the final link can be to, for example, a distant repeater. I have had chats with someone in a car in Australia. It is novel.

Some systems e.g. Hamsphere and CQ100 use the internet entirely. No traditional ham radio is involved. 

If you are unable to erect antennas e.g. in a care home, such systems might allow you to keep in contact with fellow hams. At the moment, I am not a great fan. In the future I might be pleased to use these.

See https://qsonet.com/programs.html .