At least to the young generation, it no longer indicates "do not disturb". It just means they're ready to listen to something on their phone without bothering everyone.
Also, for my part, trying to have a conversation with someone who is wearing earbuds is irritating because of the clear indication that they're not interested or paying attention and therefore there's no point in talking with them.
Which is fine, but I'm not engaging in that. My attention is worth something too, I'm not investing in a bad ROI.
bookofjoe•7mo ago