Is the sketchbook becoming obsolete?

I have chosen the question whether 'the sketchbook had become obsolete?'
This is because recently I have started a graphics course and to me it seems quite digital based, I enjoy working in sketch books a lot. It's looks like the USB has over taken the sketchbook.

During my research I have come across a book called 'Graphic.' It is full of artist sketch books. One of the artists admits to doing most of his sketches digital rather than free hand. This could be the proof that sketchbooks are becoming obsolete in the design process.

Whereas in a quote from ken carbone he states " used sketchbooks since 1970" which means he is a long term sketchbook user however this could stem from the fact In 1990 a museum curator let ken carbone look at some of Paul Gauguin's sketchbooks which made him say" it was remarkable work of art and I felt like I was peering into the soul of this great artist" meaning that these books used for notes and doodles can have a major effect on the viewer of them.

From looking around on the Internet I have realised that mainly younger artists use digital / on line sketchbooks rather than the handheld because of the neatness of a blog and the speed of a social network spreading the word of the up and coming. Whilst being on the Internet searching for digital sketchbooks I have come across a lot of apps and programmes that help you to make your own.  This could be the reason to why digital is taking over because of the usefulness and easy access.

Looking through tumblrs and blogs for research I have realised they are very neat and monochrome this is because they are used to show of final work rather than the plimnary stages of work. Whereas sketchbooks are used to fuel more ideas from previous pieces to help move on and make more work.

Every artist enjoys a different style of working. Most artist do keep a diary or some form of record of information whether it be a sketchbook or a digital sketchbook. For me it will always be a hard copy but through out researching I have come to realise there is a different technique for everyone and I don't think the sketchbook will be going out of style whilst a select few people are still using them.