I don’t say “hello?” when I answer the phone anymore. I say “hello!” The change? Caller ID. Knowing who’s calling moots obligation for identification. In fact, I feel like I sound stupid when I call a friend and announce, “hey, it’s Brian.” No shit, Sherlock. I knew it was you because my phone said “FUCKTARD.” That’s not nice, you know? Saying something like that. No need.
For the same reason I think email signatures are on their way out. I’ve stuck with signing my emails because I feel it shows courtesy and my name is only five quick keystrokes which I can execute mindlessly. Still, I sense that maybe I’m painting myself as antiquated.