It can be argued that it is not radio, but it is as much radio as operating 
a remote base, which can be done from echolink, skype, or probably IRLP.
You also have to admit, that is communication with other hams.  With out 
communicating, does radio really have a purpose?  I think that's the point 
of two way communications.  Granted often little is said, but proving the 
ability to communicate, is still necessary to get contest points or qsl 
cards, and that is minimal meaning while communicating.