The headline is indeed hyperbolic; the article admits that this is an evolution of millennials talking on AIM after school or gen X on the phone, with the only

The headline is indeed hyperbolic; the article admits that this is an evolution of millennials talking on AIM after school or gen X on the phone, with the only difference being the technology and capabilities have evolved. This isn't so much about "replacing hanging out in person" -- this is about communication and connection when hanging out in person isn't necessarily an option or comes with more social risk. It's hard enough to coordinate transportation when you're 14 and can't drive, but a chat you can quit at any time and do something else. When you have to wait for a ride and are at a mall with 7 of your friends or at somebody's house, you have no such options of retreat.