Even if I weren't to see them or specifically hear them even, I'd still call them friends.

I've never had a camera call with Uric, but through toribash - and facebook as an extension - I've become pretty close with him. Like sid and Bish, we share a lot of interests and frequently speak despite timezones. We've helped each other through some tough times too. Hell, I'd rank him among my best mates to be honest.
Take that with a pinch of salt, my social life isn't huge, but the point holds true.

I've skyped quite a few people; Numbers, Leilak, Uric(as mentioned), Notnoob, Slycooper, the list goes on (and Tamer0 on Numbers' stream show).
Even if i hadn't, I think I'd rank some of my fellow Urbanites among my good friends.

My point is that to say these people aren't your friends because you haven't seen their face or heard their voice is ridiculous.

I'm very much with sid on this.